DM George Tuesday September 13th, 2005 10:51:03 PM
The group is shaken and upset by their individual visions. Was it a fortelling of the future? Will this happen to them? Was Elbyron just being spiteful or trying to explain what would happen if the powers of nature waned or waxed according to the individual choices.
Still they are all alive and seemed to have survived these momentous times. It seems like it is over but the city is still tilted, the children ,as well as the Crimson Shields, are homeless. Where will they go next and what will they do?
OOC Everyone receives 4,000 experience points. Bonuses for great roleplay, 250 to Xenia and Florin. Everyone gets 1 hero point. (remember you get 30 experience points x your level for each hero point bonus)
I will be taking nominations from you on extra hero points until Friday of this week. You can nominate yourselves but I want an explaination on all hero point nominations. Please email me with them.
Start working on those character sheets. I want them updated by next Monday.
Xenia d20+18=34 d20+13=16 Wednesday September 14th, 2005 11:23:17 AM
Nothing happens.
No earth shaking. No magic changing of ... well ... of anything.
Xenia walks over to the chair, her posture bent slightly at the waist. She pulls it back to it's feet, and makes sure it's not going to slide before sitting gingerly on the edge. Her eyes close and she doubles forward. The memory of the pain and the threat to the life that was within her is still far too close to be pushed away.
With a few deep breaths, she bids a silent, tearful goodbye to the baby who never was, before rising again to her feet.
"So we wait?" The rogue's words are both question and statement.
She walks slowly across the floor to the doorway and peers both up the street and down. Her eyes and ears are open to danger, but then they catch the sky.
"Maybe that's it," she says over her shoulder. Her eyes rise to the ceiling of Fence Level and the magic image of the sky. "Maybe that means there won't be no more plants."
Rolls and Actions Spot 34 Listen 13
Tionel Wednesday September 14th, 2005 1:13:58 PM
"Well, we can only get set in so much. Fortify and such. Those hero guys said they were off to do stuff, so I'm imagining they'll get the city righted somehow. I think it's up to us to watch after the orphans and maybe clear a few plants off this level." Tionel ponders...how far is it to the docks? Could a trip be made there in a short amount of time? "We'll have to do some scouting inevitably. See if they'll attack on sight."
Belkior Wednesday September 14th, 2005 3:44:24 PM
The halfling cleric is with the children in the basement. It seems that the Fae King only threatened those who had decided his fate, probably because the children were beneath his notice.
Belkior decides that it is a good time to re-check any bandages, splints and dressings. Everything is fine with his smaller patients, nothing that time and rest will not heal. The resilience of children amazes the Healer. He and his fellow clerics can invoke healing magics from their deities. Yes, ultimately, a few nights rest and good food would provide the same healing for these children. Perhaps there's a way that a Healer could accelerate the body's natural healing ability?
Belkior eventually returns upstairs to his companions. Hearing the end of the conversation about what the party should be doing, he pauses and considers. "Well, myself, I should stay here with the children, particularly the injured. Maybe we could bring small groups upstairs and outside again to provide some exercise and light? Some of you might want to scout the area around here, though, to sse if any danger is lurking close by."
George (OOC) Wednesday September 14th, 2005 6:50:59 PM
Sounds like Scott is going to be out of circulation for about a week. Anyone want to play his character?
Syrdeth (Sub/Al) Wednesday September 14th, 2005 9:18:28 PM
"Why don't I go," the elf volunteers. "I can stay to the shadows. And I think I can pretty much outpace anything out there."
"I'll be down to the docks and back in no time. Anything else you want me to take a look at while I'm out there?"
[I'll do it, George. I have a fairly recent character sheet.]
Lang (ac 22; hp 56/67) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) d20+6=12 Wednesday September 14th, 2005 9:26:00 PM
Lang moves over with Xenia to look out onto the street. He looks to see how far the vines have retreated from the Giggling Ghost (spot 12/16).
Lang listens as the conversation turns towards scouting out the area.
"Sunshine and I will go scouting. We can move quickly and quietly when we want to."
Looking at the Crimson Shields, Lang assesses their scouting strengths and weaknesses.
"Perhaps Syr with his speed and Xenia with her wn scouting skills can go with us. A smaller group would probably be best."
Angus Wednesday September 14th, 2005 9:28:47 PM
"I am not very good at scouting", Angus says. "I can make someone invisible for a short time though."
"I can stay here and help Belkior with the children. I can entertain them with my flute."
DM George Wednesday September 14th, 2005 9:55:00 PM
The group gets ready to go out exploring wondering if the city has been deserted of monsters and it is safe to make a run for it.
Lang looks out of a crack in a window and sees the vines still cover the streets and climbing the walls of the Giggling Ghost. They have only retreated from the interior of the Giggling Ghost.
The merchant, who was saved from the wortling's earlier, comes up from the basement and stands listening to the debate. (OOC I can't find the merchant's name so I will rename him now. Please forgive the unprofessionalism if anyone remembers his original name.)
He will clear his throat trying to get the attention of the group and when he has it, will say, "Excuse me, but why are you trying to head towards the dock area? With the tilt of the city, that area will either be underwater or way above water. Why don't you try to see if the teleport gates are still operating? You can take the kids to the Plateau City. It has to be safer than it is here. I am from there and would be glad to help shelter the children until a better alternative can be arranged. At least there isn't a crazy jungle trying to eat you there."
Wynn Wednesday September 14th, 2005 10:45:02 PM
"I don't think we should be bringing the children anywhere" the bard counters. "We know nothing about the state of affairs in Plateau City and Bael of the House Ursidea has promised re-inforcements. Things are quiet here for the moment and I see no immediate reason to leave."
Wynn keeps a careful eye on Xenia, wondering what troubled her so about the vision. It was a good vision wasn't it? Was living on the Gold Level an insult to her past? Or was it the thought of children? Did she see more than he of the children? Did they suffer the same mutations as himself? Was that what upset her so? The bard conceals his hands awkwardly and moves towards the door to view the situation.
Xenia Thursday September 15th, 2005 11:21:30 AM
Xenia turns back toward the inside of the Giggling Ghost, one hand upon the broken frame of the door.
"Maybe we could plan that for tomorrow," she suggests. "I mean, we should know whether anyone's coming by then or not. We could spend today scouting the streets to see how safe they'd be. Maybe packing up supplies we'd need for the trip."
"I mean, well, it's only up to, what, Gold Level, right? But we'll have all those kids to keep safe and all."
Xenia reaches out to Wynn as he walks over to the door. She lays her hand against his arm.
He's hiding his hands. What terrible things did Elbyron make him see? Does she dare tell him about her vision? Who's child was it? Nobody's child. A lie. But what would Wynn think? Maybe it was his fault?
"You feeling ok?" she finally asks at last. Only that. Nothing more.
Tionel Thursday September 15th, 2005 1:01:43 PM
"Excellent idea, good sir! Well, we do want to find some way out of here... but who knows what's on the other side? I was more interested in tiny steps. Outside, the next buildings, if there's people who need help... Then, if there's not, we can go to the gates. I'm sorry you were attacked in our city, sir." Tionel turns his attention to the others. "Although normally I wouldn't think of going, you guys might need me to identify the plants we come across, if they're deadly or not..."
Florin Jadenth Thursday September 15th, 2005 1:20:44 PM
(OOC:Sorry for going AWOL for awhile George. We had some nasty storms the day before and I couldn't get the comp soon enough for posting yesterday. *is hard with 3 people wanting to use the comp sometimes*.)
Florin looks to everyone and sighs as he thinks over the vision he had, whispering abit, "Thank god Ajax stays on another plain most of the time."
Florin thinks over the current situation and sighs, weren't those noble guys suppose to send some people here or something....what was keeping them...did all this with the fey king only take such a short time really and just seem like forever?
Florin shakes his head and looks to Angus, "I don't like the idea of using up spells already but we need to know if we can get to the docks or something quickly. Someone should go out invisible or two if you can do it Angus."
Florin looks to the group as a whole and thinks over everything before pulling Xenia and Lang to the side or trying to pull the big guy Lang to the side, "You two are probably our swiftest moving pair with the exception of Wynn. I would like you two to go scout, invisible both of you if possible."
Florin glances to Xenia and steps in closer to her to speak to her without others hearing, "Are you okay Xenia? This is a trial on us all and what you were shown must of been rough, like it was on most of us." A flash of the vision flashes in his mind and he shakes his head quickly as a tear forms for Ajax, "I'm sending you and Lang if you agree and not you and Wynn because I don't want you worrying about him if anything happens."
Florin thinks and also pulls out a single thunderstone and hands it over to Xenia, "I don't know how far away we will beable to hear it but if you or Lang get into trouble, try using this as a signal."
Syr (Sub/Al) Thursday September 15th, 2005 2:20:16 PM
"Hey!" the elven monk exclaims. "What about me, Florin?"
"I'm twice as fast as either of them. And much less trouble than she is too." Syr throws Xenia a wink. "Hey, Angus, turn me invisible, and I'll be there and back in two shakes."
Belkior Thursday September 15th, 2005 3:44:41 PM
The halfling cleric listens to his companions planning the scouting expedition. The idea of making the scouts invisible seems like a prudent decision.
"What about communications? How are the scouts going to summon us if they encounter something that endangers them?"
Belkior begins pacing while he thinks. "What about Antitoxins? I have some left, still. Maybe the scouts should take some in case they run into the purple orc things."
When the scouts have been selected, he walks up to the pair. "Whatever you do, remember that we've already had too many wounded. Don't get into anything that endangers you. Come back here, instead. Or summon us, somehow. Or both ... that way we could be prepared if something follows you back here."
Syr 2nd Illegal Post (Sub/Al) Thursday September 15th, 2005 3:59:02 PM
"That's just it, Belkior. A scouting expedition is for just that. Scouting. The idea is to see what's there and return to tell about it."
"And, if you see something that's dangerous, a good scout's job, is to avoid it. Not to call in the troops, but to run away."
Lang (ac 22; hp 56/67) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) Thursday September 15th, 2005 9:46:24 PM
"No fighting on this scouting trip unless absolutely necessary. It will be a quick run around the immediate to see what is going on. If we are going to move quickly then it should by Syr, Sunshine and I. I have a spell that will make me move faster than any of the plant creatures we have met."
"Perhaps Syr and I can move quickly towards the docks, bypassing any scouting around the Giggling Ghost. We will use our speed to our advantage."
"This will free up Xenia to do a slower, stealthier scouting around this area. If she needs help she will be close to you guys. Syr, Sunshine and I should be able to outrun any foe and get back here."
"What do you think Florin? Is this a better scouting strategy?"
Angus Thursday September 15th, 2005 9:51:46 PM
Angus listens to the scouting plans by the Crimson Shields. He pipes in on his spells.
"My invisibility spell only lasts for 7 minutes. Not a long time, but will let you get out a fair ways and return if there are foes in the immediate area."
"If not, then you are on your own once the spell runs out."
DM George Thursday September 15th, 2005 10:00:39 PM
The group talks and starts to plan a course of action. They are just coming to a concensus when a unsteady banging begins at the front door. When the sound is investigated, the group will see 2 dirty and tattered guardsmen. One looks to be wearing the uniform of an officer, while the other seems to be a noncom.
They are glancing over their shoulders and start pounding again. "Let us in! In the name of Domi please let us in!"
Belkior d20+18=29 d20+5=11 Friday September 16th, 2005 8:02:45 AM
The halfling cleric is just responding to Xenia, "Sorry, Xenia, if I worry too much. I just wanted you to be careful out there. I'm too accustomed, I think, to careful deliberation and preparation ... and I'm not used to being able to outrun things."
When teh guardsmen pound on the door, Belkior makes a quick look at them to gauge their injuries. Heal = 29
"What is it? What are you fleeing from?" The Healer tries to look past the two guardsmen to see what might be pursuing them. Spot = 11
Xenia Friday September 16th, 2005 11:39:28 AM
"Hey, it's the soldiers," Xenia beams at Wynn. She begins unblocking the door, then stops.
"But why are there only two of them?"
Tionel Friday September 16th, 2005 1:27:08 PM
Tionel immediately starts pulling the barrier to the side, enough so that they can enter, one at a time. "Any more coming?"
Wynn d20+9=15 d20+4=24 d20+4=7 d8+3=8 Friday September 16th, 2005 5:26:12 PM
Wynn relaxes as Xenia asks if he is OK. "Sure, I'm okay, how about you? You seemed pretty angry."
The bard was about to suggest that two groups go scouting, one local and the other to the docks and elsewhere when the re-inforcements show up. Their tattered clothing and agitated demeanour suggests that danger still lurks in the city. Wynn draws his sword and readies to defend the doorway should anything other than the two guards try to enter.
[Readied action - atk hits AC 15 and AC 24 (failed to confirm critical) for 8 HP]
Syr (Sub/Al) d20+8=18 Friday September 16th, 2005 11:16:00 PM
"They look like they've seen some action," Syr adds. "We can't leave them out there."
He begins unblocking the door, ready to lash out should this be a ruse.
Florin Jadenth d20+2=20 Saturday September 17th, 2005 12:41:46 AM
Florin half chuckles to himself as he thinks that the way this place gets visitors it's almost like the GG is open for buisness again and he looks to those unblocking the door, "Well, lets hope these guys are atleast part of the guards that were to be sent here to give us a hand."
Florin will also move to help move the stuff from the door if there is enough room or need for his help also.
Once the guards are inside Florin looks over each (spot:20) before speaking to them and also if they don't show any signs of being hostile, "Greetings, what brings you here? Are you part or all the guards that was to be sent here? Also you look like something has been chasing you, whats going on?" Florin waits patiently for answers as he ponders things also.
Looking to Syr he nods and motions towards him and Lang, "After we get some answers a depending on what these two have to say you two can scout for us. Sorry to Syr, for some reason your abilities slipped my mind. I keep thinking of your fighting skills more then your stealth, I'll keep it in mind in the future my friend." Florin gives Syr a nod and a smiles to let him know he honestly didn't mean to forget him in this matter.
DM George "Tales of Woe" Saturday September 17th, 2005 2:18:42 PM
The bloody and torn guards stumble through the gate and upon closer inspection, both look very young. The officer is only in his late teens and holds the lowest rank in the guards. The non-com is slightly older but doesn't look to be shaving for very long either.
The officer falls to his knees in both exhaustion and grief. Tears spring to his eyes as he looks up at the Crimson Shields. He finally croaks out, "My name is Ensign Buckle. My squad and I were assigned to come up here and lead you and the children you are protecting to safety. We were assualted almost the entire way here. Silent orcs who feed their captives to monsterous huge trees. Giant plants that seem to come out of no where and attack. Even a shambling mound attacked and killed one of my men.
There were 10 of us and we are all that is left. It was horrible. Most of the creatures seem to be heading towards the dock area. That is where we came from."
Xenia Saturday September 17th, 2005 8:46:32 PM
"He didn't have to show that stuff to us," Xenia replies. "Someday, Wynn ... " Xenia hesitates. "Someday I wanna have kids. Maybe the idea scares you. But I know that I want to have children. Someday."
Xenia touches her lower belly. "In my mind, I could feel the baby. It was turned round the wrong way. The midwife was saying that, but I could tell already. You hear that happens sometimes. But it's a different thing to feel it yourself."
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to load that up on you. Thanks for listening." Xenia doesn't even notice when the two guards enter. They're just there all of the sudden. She wakes from the vision a second time to the words from the guards. The crushing realization that this is their rescue is no more than an interesting counterpoint.
"Alright," the rogue says in a flat voice, two or three levels too calm, "so, more than ever, we need to scout the level. Find out where we can and can't go. Maybe there's food out there. Water."
"How are the levels above?" This directed at the guards. "The guys that left this morning said something about Gold Level being ok. Is that true?"
Belkior d20+18=36 Sunday September 18th, 2005 3:15:50 PM
The halfling cleric will rush forward from where he had been standing to tend to the injured men.
After taking a moment to tend to them, he is able to determine if they have been afflicted by any of the plants. Especially the one that turned it's victims into green zombies. Heal = 36
"Well, you two seem to be okay. How long did it take you to get up here from the dock level? Did you see any sign of survivors on this level?"
To no one in particular, Belkior relates the tale of his vision. "Eberyon showed me something very much like this. I was tending to an child injured in a battle or fight over food ... presumably because of nature run riot, causing feast and famine. If anything, it confirmed that I made the correct choice when I voted."
Wynn Sunday September 18th, 2005 6:32:59 PM
The bard winces as Xenia lets out her vision and the pain and anguish it caused her. "Now is probably not a good time to tell her just how many children she might be having" he thinks to himself.
Once the surviving members of the guard patrol are safely inside he adds his own questions to those of the others; "What of the cell blocks? Are the prisoners still there? There was an old elf named Prionel. Is he safe?"
Tionel Sunday September 18th, 2005 6:50:56 PM
The elf takes a very sympathetic tact. "You poor fellows... Eight of your fellow companions, lost? I'm so sorry to hear of it." He leads them in, patting them on the backs. "First, let Belkior check your wounds. Happy, do you have any extra garments for these soldiers? At the very least, let me offer you some water and some ale." As he speaks he seats them down at a table. He begins helping them take off their shoes and armor, asking them about how many they saw, what about the docks is so important, if they've heard any rumors about the town... "Do you know how far the teleport pad is? Is it opposite of the docks? That might be the safest place to bring the children, do you think? Are there other groups in need of aid? WHat about those guys, the Children of Chaos, have you heard of them?" Tionel tries to simultaneously relax and draw out as much information as he can from them.
Lang (ac 22; hp 56/67) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) d20+6=14 Sunday September 18th, 2005 8:37:07 PM
Lang rushes through the opening they made in the barricade, drawing his shortswords as he moves. He quickly looks around the street to see if the two guardsmen were being followed (spot 14/18).
If there isn't any creature(s) moving outside, Lang will retreat into the Giggling Ghost and re-construct the barricade. If creatures are present, Lang will warn his fellow shields and wait outside for further instruction from Florin.
Angus Sunday September 18th, 2005 8:41:15 PM
Angus is happy to see reinforcements arrive to the Giggling Ghost. He is dismayed to hear that 8 guardsmen most likely lost their lives trying to get to the inn.
"Do you think any more guardsmen will come here?" he asks the two soldiers.
"Have the guards started a counter-attack to push the creatures out of the city? Is there any action to get the city upright again?"
Many more questions come to mind, but Angus waits to here answers to his questions and the questions from his fellow shields before he asks them.
Florin Jadenth Monday September 19th, 2005 9:38:03 PM
Florin takes a deep breath while thinking over the news delivered by the guards that have made it to them and closes his eyes, thinking over this carefully before speaking to the guatd's, "Okay, please calm down, I'm sorry for your loss but right now we must pull together to survive or try to survive. Right now we are all safe here for the moment anyway so my first question is this sirs. The monsters are flocking to the docks, are they trying to reinforce the docks with their numbers or leave themselves?"
Florin looks to the others and sighs, "Are only real choice if this city is okay is to get them to a higher level where they might beable to be protected easier."
Florin looks to the guards and thinks again before speaking, "The docks are a different story. You all can't stay split up down on the docks if possible. They need to seal off as many road ways and such as possible and fighting in smaller areas where less enemies can get to them at one time. Flaming arrows and such should be used to combat the plant creatures, drive them back to the water if you can. Any fires caused down there should beable to be contained easier with the water being right there."
Florin sighs and looks to his friends and shakes his head, "This cities best hope is to really rally the people, arm those they can. There is no better time in the whole Wold to fight or learn then when your home is under attack. If the people really love this city, if they really love their homes then there is no other choice if the guard themselves can do it alone."
Florin looks to the guard's and kneels down by the closest one, "Listen, this is very important, there must be survivors stationed some place. People had to of went to the guard for protection, where did you base them at? We really have to rally the people to help in this matter."
Florin stands and moves to Syr also, placing a hand on the man's shoulders and speaks to him gently, "If all the monsters are going to the docks then we have a chance if this is handled right. I must know how the situation down there is personally but I also need to get these kids to the upper levels."
Florin looks to the staurway and smiles some as he whispers to himself, "A paladin is born for war and the battlefield." Florin nods and looks back to Syr, "If we can get rid of the enemy then that leaves the vines pulling the place and puts us that one step closer to having these kids safe. I plan to use ajax if possible to get to the docks."
(OOC:Not trying to split the party up at the moment George. Hope you understand this post is all.)
Syr (Sub/Al) Monday September 19th, 2005 9:53:38 PM
Recalling the words of the merchant, Syrdeth asks the battered guards, "We heard that the docks were underwater. Is that true? Maybe they're swimming out."
"No, that can't be true. Didn't we have to climb up to get to the docks when we got back from the Crying Woods?"
The monk shakes his head.
"I think you're right, Florin. We need to go up. I'll scout the way between here and Barracks level with Lang. If all of the plant creatures are headed for the docks, then the way might be clear."
Wynn Tuesday September 20th, 2005 7:21:16 AM
"Whoa there Syr...If all the plant creatures are leaving Floating City, then we must be quite safe right where we are. The only reason to go out is to provide assistance to others. If that is our intent we would be better off with a larger group that can do battle." Wynn looks over to Florin, "Well, what mission do we pursue?"
DM George Tuesday September 20th, 2005 7:58:15 AM
OOC Hey folks, sorry for the delay. I have a new job and it is gonna take a few weeks to get used to the schedule. Please bear with me.
The soldiers are bombarded with questions and the officer breaks down weeping. The sergeant puts a hand on his shoulder and tries to comfort him and says to the group, "He lost both parents in this disaster. He is a good lad but no one expects to have to go through something like this."
He takes a serious tone and says, "You have many questions and I will try to answer them but I am not sure if you will like the answers. Most of the city is destroyed. The tilting of the city has caused most of the newer buildings to fall. That alone is disaster enough but then the monsters from that dark evil jungle attacked.
Thousands have been killed and most of the city has been evacuated to the shore. Now we are in a constant running battle with the jungle. Thousands of those purple devils have carried off our citizens and soldiers. They are feeding them to giant trees whom seem to be growing the purple devils.
We are holding with the aid of some powerful adventures. The Platinum Dragons I believe they are called. Without them, things would be much worse.
The lower levels aren't flooded but the docks are now worthless due to the tilt of the City. People and these damn plants can climb in and out but forget cargo. I think the plants are leaving the city and heading back outside because that is where most of the people are.
If I were you, I would head up not down. If your going down, I will be staying right here."
Xenia d20+3=23 Tuesday September 20th, 2005 11:03:57 AM
The need to sit down. It's all so overwhelming, and Xenia just feels the need to sit down. Running away. That's another feeling. To run away and leave it all behind. Go someplace else and start again. This place is so broken.
"Up," she says at last. "Even if we don't bring the kids there, we gotta see how things are. It's where supplies would come. They'd have to come through the Teleporter."
"I mean, we can stay and help out. Rebuild and stuff. But this is no place for the kids. We gotta find out what's up there. It might be a pretty dangerous trip. But it's that or wait here till we starve or run out of water. If there's a way out, we owe it to the kids to find it."
"But ... we can't take the kids up there on a chance. And we can't leave them here."
Rolls and Actions Knowledge Local 23 (Nat 20 /To pinpoint the location of the Teleporter.)
OoC This is a tough one. I think it would be in our best interest to see what's up there, to see if things are alright in Plateau City beyond the Teleport Pad. But, on the other hand, we can't take the kids on such a potentially dangerous mission until we know for sure. That necessitates splitting the party.
Belkior Tuesday September 20th, 2005 1:57:47 PM
The halfling cleric empathizes with the guard officer. Too many changes, too many people dead, too much of everthing. Belkior pushes his hair back from his forehead and thinks on how his mentors treated something like this. The problem is, should he be treating the guard or himself?
"You're right, Xenia. I could keep on making food for everyone for as long as Alemi answers my prayers. But I can't do anything to keep them safe."
"How long would it take for a couple people to scout the route up to the higher level?"
Angus Tuesday September 20th, 2005 5:08:08 PM
Angus listens to everyone and adds his two copper pieces worth. "I think we have to think of a more permanent solution for the orphans, maybe not their final home, but a place to stay while the Floating City is made right, if it can be. What does everyone say to giving the teleportation gate a whirl?"
Lang (ac 22; hp 56/67) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) Tuesday September 20th, 2005 11:29:30 PM
Lang and Sunshine are up for anything, but it would probably be best to stay here in the Giggling Ghost with the children.
"Perhaps a scouting party to the upper level is what we ned to do."
DM George Tuesday September 20th, 2005 11:42:17 PM
Happy, carrying some food and drinks for the guardsmen, hears the conversation and says, "I can watch the children while you go scout. I am sure these fine gentlemen will help me, since it sounds to dangerous for them to venture forth by themselves."
The sergeant hears this and says, "Yes we will stay here." His eyes dart to his weeping officer and he continues, "Yes we have had a hard time of it lately. Staying and guarding some children will give us some purpose."
The merchant pipes in, "I am also willing to stay and help, or I can come if you are planning to go through the gates, I will go with you. Not that I am not enjoying your fair city but I might be able to introduce you to the right people in the Plateau City."
Happy pipes in, "If you are going, and are going to go through the gates, then can I give you a list of supplies? We are running short here and if I am to reopen for business, I will need some things."
ooc hint hint If you split the party, things get rough on your DM. Your DM is stressed enough lately with his new job. Your DM then gets cranky and decides the best way to solve the problem is to kill off one half of the party to make his life easier. Course don't let me influence you into anything. ;-)
Wynn d20+7=9 d20+5=22 Wednesday September 21st, 2005 12:14:20 AM
Wynn frowns. "Plateau City?" he says aloud, racking his brains for knowlege of this place from old tales (Knowledge History=9) or maybe it is close to the Floating City? A sister city? (Knowledge Local=22) "Are we going to abandon the Float?" he asks finally, a look of utter confusion on his face, "and leave the orphans behind?"
DM George Wednesday September 21st, 2005 8:44:49 AM
OOC Hey folks, Need those updated character sheets! Have only received 4 of them so far. Xenia, Belkior, Wynn, and Florin. I know Jim/Angus has been away but now he is back! Let's get them in.
I have only received one vote for additional hero points. Need those also or no additional hero points!
Xenia Wednesday September 21st, 2005 10:21:36 AM
With supreme trust in Happy, Xenia shrugs on her haversack.
"We'll come back for them, Wynn. When we know the way is safe enough. Shouldn't take but a few hours to go up, even as far as Gold Level. There should be folks up there that can tell us if Plateau City is safe or not. Least, you'd think there'd be folks there."
"We can be back before dinner. What do you say?"
Question Did I get anything back on the Knowledge Local for the location of the Teleport Pad?
Note I found the Merchant's name, George: Dadun Polix
Syr (Sub/Al) Wednesday September 21st, 2005 10:33:08 AM
"It could be dangerous on the way up," Syr says to the merchant, "but if they know your face at the Teleport Pad that could go a long way toward getting things going."
Syr looks out the door, both up and down the street.
"Are you sure you'll be alright here, Happy?" he asks.
Sorry, forgot to post for Syr yesterday.
Tionel Wednesday September 21st, 2005 12:23:26 PM
"We can't leave the orphans..." Tionel says, starting a long worried speech. Then he stops, and looks over the others. He glances back downstairs. He takes a long, slow breath. "I'm sure they'll be all right," he says, definitely to himself, and without much conviction. "This is not an easy choice... I say we leave it up to Florin."
((hey, George, what's your email addy again? Also, right now, I'm still on that extra computer, I still don't have access to my character sheet...))
Belkior Wednesday September 21st, 2005 12:36:02 PM
The halfling cleric looks up at the proprietor of the Ghost. "You're sure that the children will be okay with just you and the two guards? What happens if the plants attack? Or if people like the Anvil Hearts want to come in? Can you board up the Inn securely enough?" Realizing that he's beginning to sound like a broken record, Belkior trails off.
"An expedition to the upper levels, then through the teleportal to ... Plateau City. Hmm, what should I take?," Belkior muses to himself. "No healer's kits left, and I'm getting low on other supplies. Oh well, maybe I'll have to improvise."
"Happy, please look after the children. If you want, I can write down some instructions about their medical care. Would you like that?" Belkior turns and asks the two guards, "Do either of you have any medical training? Several of the children are injured and need care, so can you look after them?"
Above it all, Belkior wonders if he made the correct requests when he prayed to Alemi this morning.
Angus HP 24/25 Wednesday September 21st, 2005 7:09:29 PM
Angus ponders Xenia's words. "Do you really think we can get back by dinner time the way our luck has been lately. We are not leaving alot of protection for the kids." Angus looks around the GG and its damage. "Lets scout a bit to see what the plant situation is before we head out. Lets say the quick and sneaky ones of our group go out for a 30 minute scout prior to us leaving."
Lang (ac 22; hp 56/67) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) Wednesday September 21st, 2005 9:25:56 PM
"My vote is to do a short scouting mission around the Giggling Ghost and towards the access point to the upper levels (what do you use to get up levels? Stairs? Rampways?)."
"Otherwise I think we need most of the group to stay near and guard the children. Unless we decide to move them all at once."
"It has been over 8 hours since the the attack, and it has not gotten worse. The leaning has not increased and enemy creatures have been absent for quite some time. It may be best to stay holed up here and ride it out."
DM George Wednesday September 21st, 2005 10:36:46 PM
The group ponders and waffles on which way to go. Should they go up and see if they can get the children out of the Floating City. Should they go check out the dock area. Is the Giggling Ghost safe to leave the kids behind? Should all go scouting or just a few?
What the group knows about teleportation pads is that they are large. Enough food and other raw materials have to be shipped to the city. Since the city used to have a population of over 50,000 people, it stands to reason that the gates are at least large enough to drive a wagon through.
What the group doesn't know is if they will be able to activate the gates once they get to them. Will there be a keeper to help them? Only way to know is to go look.
OOC Folks I would like a concensus or Florin as leader needs to step up and make a decision by tomorrow. Need to know which way you are going so I can plan.
My email is jasjen577@aol.com
Wynn Wednesday September 21st, 2005 11:28:35 PM
"Okay Xenia. I'll follow you." Wynn checks his weapons, then hoists his pack making preparations to depart.
Angus d20+8=14 Wednesday September 21st, 2005 11:31:20 PM
Angus rolls his eyes since no one is taking action. " I am staying with the kids until we find out what is outside." Angus goes over to Xenia and Syr and touches each one, turning them invisible. "Go see what is out and about, you have seven minutes do not waste it."
Angus looks over at the big ugly smelly Bugbear and thinks that we will have to start carrying water just to keep him clean. Angus moves over to Lang. "Hey now bigger buy, we will need a front line fighter to protect us softer types. I know you are normally stealthy, but hang back and protect our skins again until Xenia and Syr return."
Angus looks to Wynn and Tionel "You two can to make some music. Any catchy verses about stomping plants?" Angus begins to play his flute (perform 14). Not his best effort, but he is also attempting to get the kids to sing with Wynn and Tionel.
Florin Jadenth Wednesday September 21st, 2005 11:32:47 PM
Florin listens to the comments made by his friends before finally speaking up and nodding, "Okay, this is how it is everyone. We all are going out to scout to the upper level, if we can make it all te way up then we will."
Florin looks to Happy and the two guards and steps over to them, "I know this is a big job really considering but we will need you to protect the kids and my daughter is down there too so please do your very best."
Florin smiles to Happy, "Get a list of the suplies you need and we will see to that if we make it all the way and we will also see if we might beable to get some more help down here, atleast a couple more men."
Florin looks to the group and sighs as he stretches, "Looks like we are heading out Shields. Get your stuff ready to move out. I know some of you wanted to move quick and silent but we move together instead. However I refuse to leave this city by any means for the moment. This is my home, where my roots are and my home is in danger. I owe the temple of Domi and this city enough to make sure it is atleast half way okay before I leave it. We all do I think."
Florin moves over to Wynn and speaks to him, leaning in close to keep it between the two of them, "Hey buddy like to do me a small favor? You have the talent of lifting spirits, how about a small song or something as we prepare to leave, it may help the guards lighten up some."
Belkior Thursday September 22nd, 2005 11:40:50 AM
The halfling cleric looks back and forth between Angus and Florin, then to where he thinks Xenia and Syr are standing.
Belkior asks, "So, are we all going together? With Xenia and Syr out front looking for trouble before it finds us?"
The halfling Healer shoulders his HHHaversack and moves over to Happy. "Here. I've written instructions for care of all the children and I've left what supplies I had left. This should cover any thing that might happen. But, you've looked after travellers so you should be okay." Belkior hands the proprietor of the Ghost a neatly written list on both sides of a piece of parchment.
"If we're going, let's go and get back as soon as possible. We don't want to be wasting any time. But don't rush and miss anything, you two," says Belkior to the empty air.
Tionel Thursday September 22nd, 2005 12:36:28 PM
"Excellent. I'll go get stuff ready. We'll be back, with some help. It's also a rescue mission guys; anybody who needs help along the way, we gather. Right, Florin?" At the request for a song appropriate to evil plants, Tionel becomes speechless. An idea forms in his head instantly, inspiration for a whole musical act, nay, a play! Poor Wynn would do the starring role, as the best singer Tionel knew. He'd be a young orphan who worked at a small flower shop with the very pretty Xenia, but the business was floundering, as was his ability with girls. One day, he found a most unusual plant that brought in a great business, but as he had to keep on feeding it blood, it became evil... Brilliant. But no time for it right now. What would the hit song be from that musical? Tionel could almost hear it in his mind...
They may offer you fortune and fame Love and money and instant acclaim But whatever they offer you Don't feed the plants
They may offer you lots of cheap thrills Fancy condos in Beverly Hills But whatever they offer you Don't feed the plants
Look out! Here comes Xenia Two! Look out!
XENIA II Here I come for you!
COMPANY Hold your hat and hang on to your soul Something's coming to eat the world whole If we fight it we've still got a chance But whatever they offer you Though they're slopping the trough for you Please, whatever they offer you Don't feed the plants
Xenia II:" We'll have tomorrow
COMPANY Don't feed the plants! Don't feed the plants.
(I also wanted to go with Genesis's Day of the Triffids' Lyrics, but they're a bit druggie-related).
Syr (Sub/Al) d20=5 d20=6 d20=14 Thursday September 22nd, 2005 12:56:20 PM
Syr can barely control his irritation. Fortunately he's no longer visible to show it.
"I'll make a quick run to the Central Pillar," Syr announces from empty air. "I'll be heading down Dagger Point to Crook Street and then to the Pillar. Simple, no frills. I'll be right back."
There's the receding sound of the elven monk's feet as he leaves the Ghost, and he's gone.
Rolls and Actions Hustle/Double Move to Central Pillar and back. I'm working with an old 6th level Sheet. Speed, I think is at least 50, so that's 100 feet per 6 seconds.
Move Silently 5 (Just the base roll. DM, pls add modifier.) Spot 6 (Just the base roll. DM, pls add modifier.) Listen 14 (Just the base roll. DM, pls add modifier.)
OoC: Here's the map of Fence Level. The Giggling Ghost is number 65. You can see the route Syr is describing. Fence Level
Xenia d20+15=32 d20+18=27 d20+13=30 Thursday September 22nd, 2005 1:33:19 PM
"You're AudryTwo late, Ti'nel," Xenia's voice comes from very near the location Syr's voice had come from moments ago. "I think I already heard that song someplace."
"I'm gonna take it slower and make sure there's nothing hiding on us along the way. Just going down some hundred two hundred feet or so. I'll be back."
Then she goes silent. Whether she's there or not ... is a really good question.
Rolls and Actions Move Silently 32 Spot 27 Listen 30
Lang (ac 22; hp 56/67) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) d20+12=17 d20+16=34 d20+12=16 d20+6=25 d20+6=10 d20+12=15 Thursday September 22nd, 2005 9:00:52 PM
"Sunshine stay!" Lang commands his trusty companion (handle animal roll if needed 17).
Lang slips out through the opening in the barricade and stealthily makes his way up the street towards Crook Street. He will follow Syr and Xenia's path ending up at the intersection of Dagger Point and Crook Street.
He looks for a nice hiding spot that will let him look up and down Dagger Point and down Crook Street. He looks and listens, ready to support Xenia and Syr with his bow, if anything happens.
Rolls (with only my plusses added in; no subtractions): Move Silently 34 Hide 16 Spot 25/29 Listen 10/14 Tracking 15/19
DM George Scouts Thursday September 22nd, 2005 9:34:42 PM
Florin issues command but the group as individuals decide differently and two scouts range out first with a big smelly bugbear backing them up.
Syr tries to move quickly but is having difficulty as the city is on such an angle and vines are everywhere triping him up. He finds he can burst forward but can't substain any kind of continured hustle without falling.
Xenia moves more slowly looking for hidden monsters and assassin vines. She picks her way over the rough terrain and is happy to see Lang coming out to back her up.
Though Syr moves farther, both scouts find the same thing. The streets, that they covered, are full of rubble and dangerous in their own rights. Rocks, timber, and debris litter the area making the going dangerous.
It is strange to see this much debris, but no bodies anywhere. It looks like the dead were taken and the plants for now have moved on. The roads seem clear of monsters but taking the children through them will be difficult.
(OOC Not rolling it now for time sake but both Xenia and Syr feel that they would have trouble picking their way through debris and under battle conditions things would even be worse.)
Both scouts arrive back at the Giggling Ghost without incident. Both have received scratches, bumps and bruises from walking over the tough terrain but nothing really serious. (Each lose 1 hp)
Xenia (HP 41/42) Thursday September 22nd, 2005 10:18:28 PM
Xenia drops down onto the floor near Wynn's feet.
"I didn't think it was going to be so bad out there," she says. "And I just went down to the corner. There's stuff all over the place. You can't walk."
"We'll never get a bunch of injured kids through that stuff? Not without losing some of them. It's just not gonna work. We might as well hunker down here and try and wait it out. We can maybe send out foraging parties. Bring back food and water. Hold out till folks start coming back."
Angus 28/29 HP d20+2=6 Thursday September 22nd, 2005 11:28:12 PM
Angus, concern on his face, is happy to see all the shields return, but is less pleased with the news. "Xenia, I take it is your recommondation that we do not leave the children on their own?"
Angus looks into everyone face before asking "Does anyone have an estimate on how long it will take a scavaging party to reach the teleportation gates, go to Plateau City and return with food? I am concern that our local forageing will not be fruitfull. I have live in the Floating city for a few years, but know nothing of the gates (K. Local 6) and how they work."
Angus calls Happy over. "Happy how much food and water do you have left? How long can this rag tag group hold out? I also think we owe you big time for all the help so far. Thanks my friend."
Belkior Friday September 23rd, 2005 7:25:41 AM
The halfling cleric anxiously waits for the return of the scouts. "When will they be back? How will we know if they're okay? What if a plant attacked them? They could be lying injured somewhere ... at least Lang and Sunshine could probably find them."
When the two scouts return, Belkior will go over to their sides to examine their wounds. "Just cuts and scratches, right? You weren't attacked by anything out there, were you?"
Belkior listens to the debate about food supplies for the children, Happy and the guards. "I can make more of the food and water, like I did before. That should help hold you for a while, if you don't have enough already."
"Happy, please tell me if you need me to create and preserve food to last for two days?"
Tionel Friday September 23rd, 2005 1:34:39 PM
Tionel smiles at Xenia's reaction and bows to her appreciatively. Or at least, where she might be. Wait, is she over there? He has no clue, really. He waits patiently for the scouts to come back, meanwhile humming to himself. He checks on the orphans and sees if everyone's okay, and entertains them a little with a story about a beautiful pirate captain with a cursed treasure or something. When the scouts return, he's just finishing up the story, and heads back upstairs after a few more seconds with the kids. "If it wasn't so bad, perhaps we should move out with the orphans..." Tionel cautiously suggests, but looks to Florin. He, at least of the group, has relinquished responsibility for the decision-making to Florin in this case. Though it's obvious that he cares a lot for the kids.
Lang (ac 22; hp 55/67) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) Friday September 23rd, 2005 6:26:10 PM
OOC - I really doubt that Bugbears smell that much as they have the scent ability.
OOC #2 - If I see the merchant's rapier (I think that was his weapon), I will pick it up and bring it back to him.
Lang makes his way back into the Giggling Ghost with the other scouts. Movement in his larger body was quite difficult. He wonders how the children will get through all the debris while the city is tilted. But then again maybe their smaller bodies will hinder them less.
"It may be best to stay here at least for another day and see what happens. It was very quiet out there, no movement at all. Perhaps the plants have left for good and the people in charge of the city will start to restore order."
"I think a bigger concern of ours, other than food, is if all the plants have left the Floating City, why is it still tilted? We need to assess whether it will be toppled over completely. If we think that is a possibility then we need to mobilize and get out of here as quickly as possible."
"If we decide to move, we need defense plans if we are attacked. Perhaps Happy can help us pick a route to the teleport pads that goes by large, old construction buildings that we can retreat the children into if we are attacked."
"We may want to think this route out anyway even if we decide to stay an hold out. We could slowly move the children from building to building over the course of the next few days."
Spells: Speak with Animals Longstrider
Arrows used 32.
Florin Jadenth Friday September 23rd, 2005 9:13:16 PM
Florin thinks over what is said and sighs when the scouts have returned to deliver info to them. Florin is abit less happy that his commands were not listened too but he says nothing on it, giving up on that line of actions.
Florin sighs again and speaks up to Xenia and Syr, "How hard would it be for Ajax to go? He is pretty sure footed and everything. We really need supplies here now and waiting for it really isn't a option. If we get attacked in a weakened state then we will be looking at a possible loss."
(OOC:George, what would Florin beable to decide from the info given also? what chances would he beable to figure on Ajax making it up there? I don't mind you making the rolls if any checks are needed for the knowledge.)
Wynn d20+6=12 d20+2=21 Saturday September 24th, 2005 4:33:20 PM
Following Xenia's departure without him, the bard climbs to the upper windows of the Giggling Ghost and maintains a watch from above. [Spot=12, Listen=21]. Wynn spends some of the time cleaning and sharpening his weapons, and part of the time writing in his journal.
Wynn stays where he is when the scouting party returns and listens to the conversation from his lofty perch.
Syr (-1 hp, Sub/Al) Saturday September 24th, 2005 5:06:55 PM
"Anyone could go, Florin," Syr replies. "We could all go. But it's not going to be as quick as we had thought before."
The monk stands at the door, looking out and shaking his head.
"You could send Ajax up to Gold Level, but what is he going to do when he gets there? Stamp one for Yes and two for No? Can he tell you what he sees up there?"
"I'm sorry, Florin, but I don't know what sort of connection you have to that magic horse of yours. One thing's for sure, though. It's not the same city we had before out there. We might as well treat things as though we were in the middle of the Crying Woods. I think that means, if we plan to leave the Level, we prepare for a longer expedition."
"We might be able to move the kids little by little, just the way Lang has it laid out. But, without knowing what's really out there, we don't know whether we're endangering them unnecessarily. There might be nothing left up there. And if that's the case, we'd have to bring the kids all the way back."
"What's the situation, Belkior?" Syr asks as the halfling examines his cuts and scrapes. "How fit are they for some hard traveling?"
DM George "The debate continues" Sunday September 25th, 2005 4:40:15 PM
OOC...Belkior can create food for only one day. After that, the food rots. He is 6th level so he can create enough food and water to substain 18 normal people. I will double that when we are considering the children, which means he can feed up to 36 orphans. I believe we had around 40 orhpans before the wortlings started carrying some off, so we will say, there are 34 left. You also need to feed the merchant, and Happy plus yourselves. Call it the equivilant of 28 people.
Happy does have some supplies left, but his supply of fresh water is exhausted. He does still have beer, wine and spirits...not the best drinks for kids. He has enough foodstuffs to last another week, mainly in flour and ingrediants to makes breads and rolls etc. All of his fresh meats, vegatables and other perishables are gone.
Ajax would have great difficulty navigating the vines and the tilt of the city. When he gets to the ramps, it will be even harder as you will most likely have to climb. Still he can be summoned to you at anytime.
Matt, your arguements about bugbears makes no sense at all. Just because you can smell better doesn't mean your personal oder is better. Dogs smell much better than people but the first thing they smell is each others behinds and an unbathed dog can plainly reek.
Back in character:
The group debates which direction to go. To stay holed up or to try and venture forth. Belkior can report that after all the administrations, the kids are in pretty good shape. The are physically capable of making the trip, but some of the younger ones will have to be helped along.
The watchers of the streets don't see much movement out there and haven't seen a wortling in a while. Could have something called them off?
Xenia (AC 20 HP 34/35) Monday September 26th, 2005 4:25:51 PM
Xenia sits with her back to the wall, her mind awash with possibilities.
"You think it might work to move the kids little by little, Lang?" she asks. "We could plan short scouting runs to set up the next rest stop, then move there and hunker down, huh?"
"But, could we protect them on the move? I mean, even losing just one of them ... " Xenia draws her knees up and wraps her arms around them. "Hearing them drop out the window."
"What do you think, Florin?" she asks. "Should we risk it?"
Belkior Monday September 26th, 2005 9:52:39 PM
The halfling cleric waits until it has been decided what the party, and everyone else, is doing. No point making a full days worth of food if they're simply going to have to carry it.
"Florin, Xenia's suggestion makes sense. Send the scouts out to find a place that we can spend the night that's within a couple hours travel. Then move everyone there and prepare for the night. Even if it takes a couple days to reach our destination, it would probably be safer than pushing too hard or quickly and having any stragglers."
"I should, I hope, be able to keep everyone relatively healthy doing it that way. And keep us supplied with food, too."
Turning to Happy, Belkior confirms the state of his supplies. "So, you only have imperishables like flour and porridges. And beer, wine and spirits. Well, since there's probably no fresh water anywhere in the city, beer will probably be the safest thing for everyone to drink. The spirits, unfortunately, might have some use for treating wounds or setting things on fire."
"I can make enough food every day to feed everyone. It won't be the tastiest food, but it will keep us alive. The food provided by Alemi normally lasts only one day, but I can preserve it with the grace of Alemi, too."
OOC: Misread the description of "Create Food and Water". Belkior can preserve the food for an additional 24 hours by casting "Purify Food and Drink" when the food would normally spoil.
Florin Jadenth d20+2=22 Monday September 26th, 2005 10:02:58 PM
Florin sighs and shakes his head at this whole mess and looks to the others before speaking his mind quite plainly now as this situation is getting to him, "Till we know whats up we can't move the kids, that is not a option till we know it's safe. There safe here for the moment and moving them could put them in danger which could end up getting us all killed."
Florin motions to Lang, "Lang, move that stuff from the door for a moment please my friend."
Once the door is unbarcaded Florin moves out of the door and looks to Lang and even motions Syr over, "Keep the group together, watch over them and keep this place safe. We need supplies and we need to know whats going on up there and I'm tired of waiting any longer. I'm not stealthy but my blade is sharp and like all weapons always hungry for battle. Anyway, I will not give orders for help when they might go ignored. I'll scout and that means the risk is only to myself. If I can get food I will be back with it."
Florin leaves that as it and begins heading to go up into the city. Taking it slow as to watch his footing and doing his best to not take any unnecessary chances that might injure himself to bad or cause problems do to his heavy armor.
(Spot:22)
(OOC:George, Florin is heading out no matter to try and get supplies. List the rolls or anything you need and I will post them.)
Wynn Monday September 26th, 2005 10:39:06 PM
The bard watches Florin leave the Ghost on his own and can only shake his head.
Lang, Angus & Sunshine d20+6=18 d20+6=23 Monday September 26th, 2005 11:41:22 PM
OOC - I think Jim wanted me to post for him today as he is traveling.
Lang does not replace the barricade per Florin's instruction. He and Sunshine move outside the barricade after Florin leaves and watches his progress. He will listen for Florin if Florin tries to contact hime (listen 18/22 & spot 23/27).
Angus thinks about stopping Florin, but decides against it. Perhaps it is best if 1 from their group risks everything to see what is out there than everyone risking it. He prays that Florin comes back safely.
Angus says, "I think we should prepare the children for travel. The buddy systems is a good place to start." If he gets no disagreement, Angus goes downstairs and starts to pair off the older children with the younger children, teaching them the buddy systems as he goes along.
OOC - Did Lang find the merchant's weapon?
Syr (Sub/Al) Tuesday September 27th, 2005 1:02:16 AM
"And if he meets a shambling mound, he's going to die," Syr says. But still, he lets Florin go.
"Who comes up with these ideas?" Syr aims a punch at one of the walls and pulls up short, just the width of a sheet of paper short. "I should go with him. I'm going to go with him. He'll get himself killed otherwise."
Syr takes off out the door, easily catching up with Florin. He says nothing. He just smiles and walks along by the paladin's side.
DM George "Brave Warriors" Tuesday September 27th, 2005 10:47:38 AM
Florin loses his patience and heads out to look for supplies. Syr knowing that it is to easy to fall victim alone, decides to support his comrade and runs after him. Soon they are lost from view turning a corner.
ooc What is your destination? Are you going up level looking for the teleportation gate? Are you heading to the docks looking for food there? Need some input.
The other Crimson Shields stay behind and pray for their companion's safe return, wondering if they will ever see the two warriors again. Still the children need protection and someone has to bring them to the potty, wipe their noses, and keep their chins clean.
The Shield's wonder if this is to be their new lot in life. They have bound themselves to these children and possibly the hundreds more new orphans this disaster created. Have the Gods chosen them to put down their swords, give up there magic and permantantly take care of the little ones. Or do the fates still want them to be heroes? Why did they get a choice in the fate of the Fey King if they were only meant to be nursemaids.
Xenia (34/35) Tuesday September 27th, 2005 11:22:57 AM
Xenia finds Wynn.
"How you doing?" she asks, touching his arm lightly. Her eyes search his face for traces of the sadness and distress left by his change.
"You know ... I'm not sure about ... well, paladins. They just don't seem to, well, think much before they go off and do stuff. You know what I mean?" She sighs.
"Wynn," her hand tightens on his arm, "I'm here for you," she says, "if you need me. I'm here. Please don't push me away. I'm here for you."
With that, she releases him and heads downstairs to see to preparations for moving the kids.
"Hey, Angus," her voice sounds tired, "if we're going to take several days, I figure the kids should carry some of their own stuff. We can make small bedrolls, and they can carry a few things inside them. We can use some blankets, roll 'em up and tie the ends with rope to close 'em off and make a shoulder strap too. Maybe we can even cut some of the blankets to a smaller size."
"And they should wear coats if they have them. It may not be cold, but it'll give them a little protection from bumps and scrapes."
"Each of them should have their own cup or something to hold water in. A fork, a spoon, and a knife. A little sack would be nice too. For foraging."
"Good thing we're at an inn. Poor Happy."
Xenia pulls a piece of paper and a pen from her haversack and begins making a list.
"Anything else you can think of?"
Tionel Tuesday September 27th, 2005 12:46:00 PM
Tionel sighs and voices some of those things people might be thinking, even as he sits watching guard. "If we anchor ourselves here, unable to move the kids, we'll never get the kids out of here. And if we never get the kids out of here, we're just waiting for a rescue mission. I don't think any of us thinks there's going to be a rescue mission. It's up to us to get them out of here. Now Florin knows that, heaven knows why he went to get supplies. I think it's that self-righteous paladin 'I'll take the dangerous spot so the rest of you can be safe' thing. Oh, well. Say, Angus, want to play some cards?"
Florin Jadenth Tuesday September 27th, 2005 5:42:23 PM
Florin moves along with Syr and nods to the man, saying little else right now as his mind is mainly on getting food back to the GG and also finding out how the rest of the way up to the top levels of the Float are.
After a short distance he speaks to Syr and if nothing else happens to take his mind from this all, "If the way up is cleared enough we can get food back to the group and the kids and will know if taking the kids up to the top levels will be even worth the risk. We might even beable to find alittle bit more help to get them there and such. Maybe the teleporter out of the city would be good for atleast the kids and then we can look seriously into what we can do for the city. For now I guess getting there would be the best place to keep my or our thoughts."
(OOC:Florin is planning to head to the upper levels, hoping to find food and also scout out the place on the way or atleast the path he takes to find out how hard it will be for the kids to make it all the distance.)
Wynn d20+6=22 d20+2=17 Tuesday September 27th, 2005 7:12:21 PM
The bard gives Xenia a reassuring squeeze on the arm. "I'll be alright Xenia. I hate this deformity and I'm not sure I'll really ever accept it, but I'll be ok. Right now I'm more concerned about Florin. Do you think he's alright?" Wynn taps his temple with his finger. "I mean do you think that druid knot has affected him? I just don't understand his going off on his own."
Wynn maintains his watch on the street [Spot=22, Listen=17] and puts his mind to the problem of moving the children. "If they cannot make it through the debris then we either need to remove the debris or move the children above it. I wish we had a friendly dragon at our disposal!"
Belkior Tuesday September 27th, 2005 9:56:14 PM
The halfling cleric looks about, realizing that two of his companions have headed out to scout. "Ahhh, I really hope that Florin and Syr make it out and back without harm. I mean, they can heal and protect themselves, but it's not the same without us to back them up."
Belkior moves towards Xenia and Wynn, coughing politely as he nears them. "Your ideas are pretty good, Xenia. I'll get back downstairs and check on the condition of the children. Maybe I can them started on preparing to move. I'm a bit more experienced, you know, with being small."
Angus Tuesday September 27th, 2005 10:18:46 PM
"Good ideas Xenia. Getting the kids gear for a 'hike' is a nice plan. If it takes a while to move, having each of them supplied with some basic camping gear will help. How are we going to carry the water?"
"I'll go downstairs with Belkior and send up a few of the older kids to help gather the supplies we need from the upper levels of the inn."
Angus heads downstairs with Belkior.
Lang & Sunshine d20+6=9 d20+6=26 Tuesday September 27th, 2005 11:06:30 PM
Lang & Sunshine remain by the opening in the doorway keeping and eye and ear out for Florin and Syr. Or anything else that moves on the street.
Spot 9/13 Listen 26/30 (natural 20)
DM George Tuesday September 27th, 2005 11:10:26 PM
OOC trying to get back on schedule.
Florin and Syr travel to the northwest column and with some difficutly and rough going make it to the entrance. The stairs leading up towards the upper levels are vine covered and look to be tough to climb.
Upon inspection the two adventurers realize that they will need ropes and other equipment to get the children up the stairs safely. The adults and even the older children (over 7) should be able to scramble up but the younger might fall to easily.
The streets seem strangly deserted of all life both plant and animal. It looks like moving the children would be safe enough from external attack.
Florin and Syr please make a listen check dc 15
The others start rounding up kits for individual children. Happy donates soiled linens and napkins for the project. Each child gets one with which they can make a travel kit. Each gets a wooden bowl and a wooden spoon.
The watch also reveal the streets to be mainly quiet...almost to quiet.
Syr d20+4=8 Wednesday September 28th, 2005 6:47:25 AM
As they pick their way amoung the rubble he calls out to Florin, "Hey Bossman, not that I'm complaining but let's make this fast. Some of the worst things seem to happen when we split the group up. I almost died fighting the Hearts the last time we were separated." Mumbling almost to himself, "Of course, Angus and his little darts of light wasn't quite as effective as the thunderbolts he is tossing now." Louder for Florin to hear "Heck, look at Xenia, she lives away from the group and is now dealing with this 'love' thing all the time. Bad things happen when we keep families apart." The elf politely ignores the fact that Florin too lived apart from the group.
Stumbling on some of the broken rubble, Syr hears nothing other than the crunch of the rocks under his feet (listen 9).
Xenia (34/35) Wednesday September 28th, 2005 11:56:24 AM
Xenia lays out a square of old linen flat on the floor. She places a wooden bowl next to a wooden spoon in the center of the cloth.
"You see, you take the two opposite corners of your bundle, and you tie 'em together, like this. Then you take the other corners, and you bring them up and tie them together too, and there you go, you've got a bundle. You can put lots of stuff in them."
"Everyone pair up and get together your bundles. If your buddy is having trouble, give 'em a hand. After that, we're gonna forage right here in the Ghost. I want you to find yourself a walking stick. Something not too big, but it's gotta be stout enough too, 'kay?"
"We're not gonna use these to fight. I want you all to understand this right off. If there's danger, you're gonna run. 'Kay? But a walking stick will help you with balance. And sometimes you need to poke at something that you don't wanna touch. Or sometimes you need just that little bit more reach than you have with your arms. That's what it's for."
"Alright, everyone? Let's go to it."
[OoC: Any results on that previous Knowledge Local roll? It would be nice to know where the Teleporter is. Or at least where we think it is.]
Tionel Wednesday September 28th, 2005 12:08:40 PM
Tionel helps the kids get their items together. He is happy to care for each particular kid, naming two dozen and seeming to know much about them, wat they want, and so on.
"When Florin gets back, if it's safe, we're getting out of here with you kids, going to Plateau City through the transporter. What do you think?"
Belkior Wednesday September 28th, 2005 12:27:36 PM
The halfling cleric checks the last of his patients, seeing how the period of rest has allowed them to heal. Overall, he's satisfied by the improvements that time and nature have provided.
Once Xenia and tionel start preparing the children for the move, Belkior will start organizing the airs of children. Like the other Shields, Belkior has learned enough the children to know who are siblings, who are fruends and who the loners are. "Like Xenia said, w've all got to help one another with this trip. I'm smaller than several of you, and way older, so you're going to need to help me. too."
With that, Belkior appoints some "helpers" who will carry the little odds and ends that the Healer has accumulated. "And I'm going to need all of my helpers to stick close to me. I'm small, you know, so I'm going to need help getting over and around some of the obstacles. And I need the things that I've given you to carry, so stick close for that reason too."
One the children are busy, Belkior will move over to Xenia. "I was thinking that persuading the children to help me, and keep close to me, would work better than ordering them to do so."
Florin Jadenth d20+2=7 d20+3=5 Wednesday September 28th, 2005 3:43:27 PM
Florin nods as he listens to Syr and motions to the stairs for the moment and speaks up, "These stairs are going to cause a problem. I know you want to get back fast but lets see if we can deal with this first."
Florin pulls his backpack off and begins undoing the straps and pulls off his 50ft of hemp rope and smiles, "Is always nice to go prepared. Lets see if we can rig something to help get the kids up and us of course and then we can head back. Or go up and take a quick look before heading back, deal?"
(listen:7 spot:5)
Lang & Sunshine d20+6=25 d20+6=16 Wednesday September 28th, 2005 11:22:40 PM
Lang and Sunshine maintain their vigil by the barricade. Lang is a little concerned by the lack of movement and sound out on the street. He thought that people would be moving about, now that it appears the plant monsters have left the area. He hopes that there are some survivors in this area besides the group in the Giggling Ghost.
Spot 25/29 Listen 16/20
"It is very strange outside. There should be survivors coming out of there hiding places by now, looking for the authorities. It has been a long time since a plant monster has been around. Where are they?" Lang says back towards the group.
Angus Wednesday September 28th, 2005 11:28:03 PM
Angus moves downstairs with Belkior and helps him organize the children.
"Everybody make sure they know who there buddy is. When we leave the Giggling Ghost you need to make sure you stick with your buddy at all times."
Angus moves back upstairs to find Happy.
"Happy, will you be coming with us when we leave? Is it possible for Daphne to leave the Ghost and scout for us? Is she bound here?"
"Xenia, when we leave we should group off the children to each adult. There are 8 of us, plus the 2 guards, the woman (is she still with us?) and possibly Happy and the merchant. That means each adult can try to keep an eye on 3 to 4 kids so that none get separated from the group."
Wynn Wednesday September 28th, 2005 11:35:11 PM
The bard moves through the children rounded up by Belkior and Angus. He will individually pull some of the biggest kids aside and have a little talk with them about looking out for the littler ones. "You're not to go looking for trouble, now," he counsels, then lowering his voice so that just the older kid can hear he continues, "but if someone or something was to come at you or the littler ones," Wynn looks the kid in the eyes, all seriousness, "look around for a big stick, an old board or piece of fence, and start swinging."
Coming up to Angus, he places a hand on the his shoulder. "Good job organizing the kids. Five or six squads would be good. Just like adventuring parties, eh?" Seeing the webbing between his splayed fingers, the bard withdraws his hand from his friend's shoulder. "Yeah, good job, Angus," he repeats, then moves on to talk to another of the older kids.
DM George Thursday September 29th, 2005 7:56:59 AM
OOC. Yes even I forgot about the woman. Thanks for the reminder.
The group back at the Giggling Ghost are preparing and organizing the children for their upcoming adventure.
The merchant is talking to the stray woman the Children of Chaos rescued and brought to the Giggling Ghost. They seem to be having an animated conversation and both come up to Angus and volunteer this information. The Merchant says, "I have been through the teleport gate on numerous occassions. It is more of a portal, tall enough and wide enough to drive a large wagon through. It is located on the Goldlevel in a warehouse like building. Wagons enter through the north end and leave through the south end. It is on the corner of Emerald Cross and Platinum Pass."
The woman refugee pipes in, "I have heard that the gates operates only in the mornings. It has one way traffic going from the Plateau City to the Big Float from 6am to 9 am and then reverses and goes the oppostite way from 9:30 to 12 noon."
Lang is concerned about the lack of surviviors in the city. Could have most of the city been evacuated or are most people just holed up waiting for rescue. Then Lang breaths a sigh of relief when he does see some movement on the street. A large tiger pads past the Giggling Ghost, moving off in the direction that Florin and Syr travelled to. Is it hunting them?
Meanwhile...Florin and Syr don't seem to hear anything this time around and concentrate on getting a rope set up the stair case. Someone will need to carry it up? Who will it be? Normally the climb would have a climb rate of 10. If you are going to carry the rope, please make a dc check of 15.
Please make a spot and listen check again.
Xenia (34/35) Thursday September 29th, 2005 11:14:44 AM
Xenia silently rolls her eyes as Wynn gives instructions to fight rather than run. Still, she says nothing to contradict him. Instead, rather, the rogue hunkers down for a moment, pulling her arms comfortably onto her knees and watches as he works with the kids.
The corners of the rogue's dark lips tug into a smile as she sees the way they listen to him. The looks in their eyes as they take his instruction. Finally, with a sigh, a blend of different shades of emotions, she rises and gathers together one of the groups of younger kids.
"Alright, guys! We're gonna do some training, 'Kay? We're gonna do some balance training and some rope climbing training. Things are pretty wrecked out there, and we're all gonna have to walk carefully. It's a different place out there than you're used to, and if you slip and fall, you could hurt yourself pretty bad."
"So, we're gonna practice here in the Ghost, walking across the floor. Try to keep one hand on things as you go, alright? Then next we're gonna practice climbing up the knotted rope on the stairs, 'kay?"
As the groups of kids run through their training, Xenia notes the ones that have a knack for things, and those that do not. Always a good idea to know who might be the ones to need help.
Tionel Thursday September 29th, 2005 3:41:44 PM
"Hmmm. Then we'll want to get there just around the time they switch. If, after all, there's anybody come here to give aid, we could use their help, and if not, we want to get through that portal as quick as possible," Tionel comments to the two. When Florin gets back, he gives their leader that information as quickly as possible (if that's before next post, which doesn't seem likely). Tionel notices Xenia getting the kids together and training them and pats her shoulder with approval. Then he hears a word he hasn't thought of in a while... Daphne! "Daphne, are you here, dear?" He hopes she is. She'd make an excellent scout... but, wait. "Can you leave the giggling ghost? I thought you were bound here..." Tionel ponders how the group will go out... all in a big line? In little clumps? As one massed group? If he were an animal, how would he attack... probably nip at the strays, like wolves. Or all-out attack if a monster. He comments upon this to Angus and Syr, worriedly. "This will be like a gravy train to any real predators out there. There'll be two types of attacks; darting quick ones and the head-on assaults. The head-on assaults we should probably flee from, while one or two of the older ones hold the big assaulters off. It's the other ones I'm worried about. Hit and run attackers, who keep the fighters busy and go after the kids. I might use a lot of my spells as distracting mini-meals. But for these hit and run attacks, we can't flee, we have to tighten up into a group. So, we should prepare for that."
DM George Thursday September 29th, 2005 10:13:09 PM
OOC OK I know I posted early this morning istead of late last night but only 2 posts today? What happened? Not gonna be able to post tomorrow morning as I have an early meeting.
Lang & Sunshine Thursday September 29th, 2005 10:16:22 PM
Lang moves away from the opening towards Belkior and Xenia.
"Which of the children are the most injured? I can carry at least 1 and probably a 2nd if there are children that shouldn't walk. They will need to get acquainted with my new form before we leave."
Angus d20=17 Thursday September 29th, 2005 10:22:01 PM
As the mood gets a little serious in the Giggling Ghost, Angus decides some light music might ease some of the tension that is building as the group prepares to move.
Perform 17 without bonuses.
Angus's has his own concerns about leaving with his own physically challenged body.
Wynn Thursday September 29th, 2005 10:43:09 PM
We will just have to fend them off as best we can my friend" the bard responds to Tionel's concerns. "We'll fight a defensive rear guard action as the others lead the kids from danger. The trick is to not let yourself get surrounded."
Wynn watches appreciatively as Xenia runs the kids through their paces.
Florin Jadenth d20+3=6 d20+2=3 Thursday September 29th, 2005 11:01:18 PM
(OOC:Sorry for not posting earlier George, I fell abit begind.)
Florin glances about wondering if there might be a solid spot where he could maybe fire a arrow with the rope attached to get it up there quicker and safer for the both of them. (spot:6) Clearly though he doesn't notice a spot he can hit or is to distracted and even worse he can't seem to hear anything at the moment as he concentrates.
Florin glances to Syr and motions, "If you happen to notice a spot I can try tieing the rope to a arrow and firing it up if not then maybe it would be better for you to take it up while I guard. My heavy armor and all mainly." Florin shrugs and waits for Syr's opinion.
Syr d20+4=18 d20+8=13 d20+9=19 Friday September 30th, 2005 2:28:08 AM
Looking over at the paladin he says, "Shh! I think I hear something?" (listen 18) He peers all around looking for what is making the noise (spot 13).
Assuming the sound is nothing that require immediate attention, Syr takes the rope and climbs up (climb 19). Once at a secure spot he ties down the rope and drops to the ground.
Motioning to Florin, he says, "Let's go get the kids and get out of this place?"
DM George Friday September 30th, 2005 7:15:41 AM
Syr cocks his head and listens to the wind and hears a squeaky call for help. "Help me! Please help me. Can anyone hear me! I am in here." The noise seems to be coming from a partially collapsed building down the street. Then the pleas turn to shrieks as it yells, "No! Get away! Help! Get away from me!"
Meanwhile back at the Giggling Ghost the children are entertained, drilled and planning goes on.
Belkior Friday September 30th, 2005 7:41:00 AM
The halfling cleric spends more time with the children that he has "adopted" as assistants. Since it appears that everyone else has decided to instruct the children, he begins some classes on rudimentary medical care.
"Wally, say that Frado here has cut himself. How do you treat that?"
The eager child pipes up, "I take a cloth, like this." And he demonstrates by folding it into a ragged square. "Press it down on the wound, like this." And he demonstrates on Frado. "Then, if Frado can, get him to press down on it while I wrap it with another cloth. Then I get him to you. Right?"
Belkior beams at his student. "That's exactly it. I've studied for a long time on this, so I can heal or cure Frado. But someone else may need to look after him before I can get there."
The Healer looks around at his students, smiling at all of them. Maybe, just maybe, one or two of these students may choose to follow him in the Healer's path. Belkior had never previously considered having students, teaching someone to succeed him. It's a good feeling, in the midst of the horror that the coming of the Fey King has caused.
OOC - I normally post either late, or this time. I was training all day yesterday, so couldn't get on this board, and then was busy running errands last night. And making the DM post in DFR2.
Xenia (41/42) d20+16=25 Friday September 30th, 2005 1:42:25 PM
"How to fall down is as important as how to stay standing up. Sometimes you fall. And you gotta learn now to do it so you don't hurt yourself so much."
"So, we're all gonna practice falling backwards. The worst thing you can do is to freeze up 'cause you're afraid. When you're all stiff, you can't move and roll with it. So this is practice so that you won't be 'fraid. 'Kay?"
"When you fall, you wanna curl and protect your head. Watch this now." Xenia drops slowly backwards, and as she falls, the rogue tucks into a ball and rolls, just short of a backwards summersault. (Tumble 25)
"Alright. Lets practice that."
While the kids practice in pairs, Xenia drifts over to the door and looks out. In her mind, she wonders how Florin and Syr are making out. Not a likely choice for scouts, she thinks and once again, to herself, questions Florin's judgment.
"I think they're all pretty good, Lang," she says, for a moment, herself somewhat startled when presented close up with his appearance as a bugbear. "Though I think you might want to take some of that old linen and try and rig some sort of sling from it. I'm thinking mostly of some of the climbing. Some of the young ones might have trouble with that and need to be carried up."
"One thing for sure, these kids are gonna be ready for bed come tonight."
"That's good. 'Cause they're gonna need all the rest they can get for tomorrow."
Tionel Sunday October 2nd, 2005 2:48:04 PM
Tionel's teachings to the kids: "Now, remember, this is going to be very important when you grow up. Okay, three of a kind beats two pairs, and a straight always beats a flush. Everyone always forgets that. Now, the difference between Gargul's Grab'em and Straight, No Chaser is quite simple..."
(When a DM can't post, I usually wait till after his post before posting, I figure otherwise it breaks the two/day posting rule)
Lang d20=11 d20+6=19 d20+6=21 Sunday October 2nd, 2005 8:58:00 PM
Lang takes Xenia's advice and hunts around for some sheets and stuff to make a sling that he can put an injured child into if need be.
He asks the women if she has any sewing experience or any experience with carrying baby's around. Perhaps she can help him with its construction.
Sling 11.
After that he moves back towards the opening and takes a look around.
Spot 19/23 Listen 21/25
Wynn d20+6=10 d20+2=10 Sunday October 2nd, 2005 10:05:09 PM
Wynn returns to his position at the window and keeps a watch for Syr and Florin. [Spot=10, Listen=10]
DM George Sunday October 2nd, 2005 10:15:06 PM
The group at the Giggling Ghost continue to drill the children and try to get them organized for their journey. It seems to be going well for a while but suddenly disenergrates into confusion. Several of the children need to go to the bathroom at the same time. Others just wander off and start playing. Two have seized broken chair legs and start mock sword fighing until one whacks the others on the arm and both start crying. Yet another falls down chasing after another and skins her knee and start to cry.
Jilla comes up to Angus and asks, "Where is my Daddy? I want to see my Daddy!" She breaks out into tears. "Please let me see my Daddy..."
Wynn resumes his post and sees nothing of interest but does hear a loud roar from the direction that the tiger trotted towards.
Lang gets practical advice from the woman, who says, " I am not married but had many younger siblings. Fold it this way. She smiles at him and continues,"Be careful of them grabbing your fur if you carry the kids. Their hands can be amazingly strong and that is a lot of chest hair to lose."
Syr and Florin also hear it but it is much closer to them and sounds like it is coming from the direction they heard the voice earlier.
Syr d20+8=26 Monday October 3rd, 2005 4:09:41 AM
Hopping down from his rope tying the elf turns to Florin, "Hey chief, while I was up there I heard someone yelling... I'm betting there is someone over there in trouble. I say we go take a look at yell for help if we need it?"
Syr listens more carefully trying to determine how many distinct creatures there are before following Floring (listen 26).
Xenia (34/35) Monday October 3rd, 2005 9:41:26 AM "Grrrrr ... "
"Hey, um, Belkior, Tionel, Angus," she calls out. "We need to come up with some sort of schedule for these kids. They need to eat in squads, play in squads, go to the bathroom in squads, forage in squads. Like that. Could you come up with a schedule for that?"
"Please," she asks before turning her attention to ... other things. "Give me those." Somehow that particular stern look just comes natural, when Xenia takes the sticks from the hands of the two boys fighting. Maybe it comes natural to all women faced with situations of motherhood.
"You're not gonna get out of here by fighting each other," she lectures.
"LISTEN UP EVERYBODY!!" Xenia shouts. The slim rogue jumps up on a tabletop and holds her arms up into the air. "TOMORROW WE'RE GONNA LEAVE HERE, AND THIS IS SERIOUS BUSINESS!"
"All kinds of bad stuff could happen out there. It's good to learn to fight. And it's good to learn to run. But you gotta remember, out there, if you're fighting, and you get hit, you got not time to cry. You gotta keep fighting. If you're running away out there, and you fall, you got no time to cry. You gotta scramble to get back up and run."
"You don't do that, and you're gonna die. Some of you saw your friends when the purple orcs clawed them and threw them outta the windows. They're dead. Is that scary? Does that make you scared? Good. 'Cause being a little bit scared is gonna help keep you alive. Running and fighting is gonna help keep you alive too. But you wanna know what's gonna help you the most? You know what's gonna keep you the safest?"
"Paying attention. That's what's gonna keep you alive. Paying attention and working together. You can't just be thinking about yourselves here, alright. We gotta work together. And we gotta help each other. It's important."
Inside, Xenia sighs. What's she talking about anyway? They can barely manage to work together themselves. She climbs down off of the table.
"Angus, can you make sure that each squad has a leader, and that leader knows that he's responsible for talking to us when they have a problem? Maybe talk over with Belkie and Tionel to pick the ones who are best. I don't want them trying to pick their own."
"Lang, I know you've been trying to get the kids so they're not so scared of you, but maybe we can use that now. Could you watch the kids and give 'em a little discipline? At least keep 'em out of trouble."
"Everything alright up there, Wynn?" she shouts. Her eyes to the door and the street outside, wondering what could be taking Florin and Syr so long? She looks at little Jella calling for her daddy and wonders what sort of crazy stuff are they could be getting themselves into.
Angus Monday October 3rd, 2005 10:09:22 AM
Angus bends down to look Jella in the face. "Your Daddy left for a little bit, he went to look for a new home for all of us. He will be back soon." Angus adds reassuringly.
Angus listens to Xenia and adds "Xenia, lets break the kids down into groups by age or as close as we can approximate. Also, lets set up groups of Shields guarding particular goups of kids. Any suggestions?" Angus finishs asking all of the Shields in attendance.
Wynn Monday October 3rd, 2005 5:16:11 PM
The bard startles at the sound of the roar and calls out to those still in the Ghost. "Something roared from the direction that our scouts were last headed. I'm going out to make sure they are all right, who is coming with me." Wynn has clearly had it with the squabbling and truculent orphans and it can be heard in his voice.
With or without an answer from his companions, the bard steps from the upper story window and floats gently to the ground.
Florin Jadenth d20+1=11 d20+1=20 d20+1=12 Monday October 3rd, 2005 10:01:19 PM
Florin looks to Sur and nods as he looks to the rope and sighs, "Well, looks like a climb for me then too and we go looking. Maybe we can give a hand to whoever it is before heading back to the GG."
Florin grabs the rope after Syr makes his way up and will try climbing in his armor and all as he goes to help the person trapped also. (I hope I read right and the sound was coming from up where the rope was tied. I made three climb checks and added in the climb check, armor penalty and all. Climb:11,20, 12.)
Belkior Monday October 3rd, 2005 10:07:46 PM
The halfling cleric bounces up and down to get the attention of the children he ahd been instructing in the rudiments of medical care. "Frado, Wally ... look here." Xenia's shout helped in gettting their attention.
"Xenia will be organizing all of you into squads. I want one of you to be with each group."
Belkior then movss over to the rogue. "Would you like one of the children that I've started training in medical care in each squad."
DM George d20=1 Monday October 3rd, 2005 10:22:40 PM
Xenia tries to get stern with the children and gives them a little speech about being scared. Unfortunately it backfires and the children don't react well to the reminder of their "brother and sister orphans" being thrown out of windows and killed.
Several of the younger ones (5-7) just sit and wail in place, while some of the older ones 8-10 run off and try to find a place to cry in private.
The refugee woman comes up to Xenia with a stern look on her face, grabs her arm and pulls her aside forcefully. She says sarcastically, "I know you are a hero and could kill me with a flick of your sword but if you ever purposely remind these children of the horrors they already experienced, the death of their friends or try to frighten them again! I will....." She doesn't complete the sentence but stomps away, grabs a little girl and tries to stop her tears.
Meanwhile...Syr and Florin decide to investigate the cries for help and the nearby roar. (It is on the same level as the GG so you don't have to climb the rope)
They move quickly to a half destroyed house and hear, "Stay away from me! Oh by Alemi, Can someone help! Help!" They also her a low and staady growl coming from ruin.
Wynn lowers himself to the ground and starts to move towards the direction he heard the growl.
Xenia (HP 41/42) d20+1=18 Monday October 3rd, 2005 10:51:10 PM
Xenia catches the woman by the arm and pulls her to the side.
"Listen you," she starts in, "these kids have to get over this. And fast. If they don't, they're going to die. If they cry now, all the better. They need to do it now, 'cause if they do it out there, they're gonna get themselves, and maybe one of us, killed."
"Now get this through your head, I love 'em or I wouldn't be here. And you know what not understanding that in the first place is gonna get you?" Xenia puts her nose right up close to the woman's. "You know what I'm gonna do to you for saying what you did? I'm gonna put you in charge of morale. That's right. You get to keep the kids happy and focused, while we try and keep them alive."
"If you need anything, you ask. 'Cause this is no blow off job. This is important. These kids need to hang together on the way up, or they're gonna wind up hurting themselves."
"'Kay? Got it?"
Xenia rolls her eyes as Wynn goes running off. Men!
Rolls and Actions Intimidate 18
Tionel Tuesday October 4th, 2005 7:31:32 AM
"Xenia..." Tionel joins the two women offside, and puts a checking arm on the hot-headed half-blood. "Calm down. The woman's right...these are kids. You can't teach them how to fight, or avoid damage, or anything like that. I'm not asking you to treat them like you were treated, if this is how you grew up, I'm asking you to treat them the way they should be treated. Freely. Kids are kids, and they should remain that way, until they grow up. It's our job to protect and guard them. Now, I know you want them to live, but teaching them to fight is not the way, not right now. Please. What you said may be a good speech for young boys become soldiers, but these kids don't have to grow up. Tomorrow, they'll be kids still." Tionel sighs, realizing he could talk on and on, chiding the rogue for treating the kids like... a dwarven parent. "Ah, don't worry about it. You're doing your best, dear, and we love you for it. Ma'am," he turns to the woman, "I'll take that job of morale for now, 'cause really the orphans are our concern, not yours."
Tionel goes about with the kids who started crying, the ones who are most troubled at first, and draws them into a bit of normalcy for the kids. It becomes arts and crafts time for a while, as Tionel supplies some dozens of sheets of paper (ripped out of an extra book he has) and an inkpot or so, and allows the kids to make little art designs. He tries to encourage them to make "happy designs", and shows them a method of folding the paper in half so as to make new double-sided drawings...
Wynn d20+2=17 d20+6=9 d20+11=29 Tuesday October 4th, 2005 7:48:05 AM
Wynn sets off in the direction of the roar he had heard earlier and strains his ears for further sounds of the beast or of Florin or Syr[Listen=17]. The bard moves as quickly as possible through the debris, picking the clearest paths and nimbly dancing over larger piles of rubble as needed [Tumble=29]. It is only while on even ground that he can afford to scan his surroundings for danger [Spot=9] and he resolves to simply keep moving rather than stop and allow himself to be targetted.
Angus Tuesday October 4th, 2005 8:31:03 AM
Angus notices the ladies heated interplay and interjects "Ladies please. We have all had a rough day and all each of us wants to do is do what is best for the kids." Angus looks to Xenia and remarks "We also have to get all of the Shields in one place. This running off stuff is going to get our people hurt."
Somewhat exasperated Angus calls out to those still in the GG "Can anyone draw me a map of the the shortest way to get to the teleportation platforms. Then maybe we can scout a route and get the kids to saftey." Angus is looking in particular to Happy for direction.
Xenia (2nd Illegal Post) Tuesday October 4th, 2005 9:24:49 AM
Xenia rounds on Tionel. Her voice is a quiet hiss.
"You shut up, Ti'nel. You just shut up. That's the problem with this whole group, you know. We got zero unity. Everyone goin' off and doing their own thing. Contr'dicting each other."
"You haven't been out there, Ti'nel. I got hurt just walkin' down the street. That's all. Just walkin' down the street. With the balance I got, I got hurt. You wanna bring these kids out into that and get them to safety? I say that after they get someplace safe, they can go back to being kids. That's what, Ti'nel? One? Two days? But until that time, we do our best to get them to someplace safe. Even if that means they can't be kids for a while. Otherwise, some of them will never live the next few days to even be able to be a kid again."
"You wanna go ahead and teach 'em to play cards and whatever framble matter like that, you go ahead. But if even one of those kids dies, you can tell yourself that it's *you* that killed them. Alright?"
The next few words are punctuated as the rogue stabs her finger into the druid's chest. "It was *you*. *What*. *Killed 'em*."
Lang (ac 22; hp 56/67) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) d20+6=23 d20+6=18 Tuesday October 4th, 2005 1:57:05 PM
Lang thanks the woman for help with the sling. He stores it in his backpack, hoping he will not have to use it.
Lang knows it is not wise to get in the middle of 2 women fighting, so he remains near the opening.
He also knows that his current form will not help with settling down the children.
He remains near the barricade keeping watch.
Spot 23/27 Listen 18/22
Syr d20+5=7 Tuesday October 4th, 2005 7:21:28 PM
Speeding up to an easy jog through the rubble(doh, dex check 7 if it was needed) he moves toward the sound, "Someone needs help." Cocking his head to the side, "It sounds like there is only one growl. Quick, you make the call, we bail that person out now or you go help her while I run for the others?"
Belkior Tuesday October 4th, 2005 8:39:00 PM
The halfling cleric is at a loss. All of his training in healing and curing people han't really prepared him for this. Certainly, Belkior has dealt with grieving relatives of patients who were beyond saving. But there are so many children, all of whom may have lost someone.
And he has lately spent too much time with adventurers, people who intentionally put themselves in harms way. Facing death and injury on such a scale may well be beyond the ability of the children to cope.
Obviously, Xenia and the woman haev too very different approaches to dealing with loss. Belkior's inclination is closer to Xenia, given what happened to his family when he was young. He faced what had happened, but maybe that was because he was a child and too young to fully realize anything beyond loss.
Regardless, he also isn't about to step between the two women. Especially since each of them outweighs and outreaches him.
Looking around, Belkior notes where his pupils have moved to. He goes over to Wally because that boy had seemed to be one of his better students. "Wally ... missing people who have died is natural. And it's not going to be something that disappears overmight. Even today, I still sometimes dream of my parents and family. But what I did was harness those feelings, and I made it part of my reasons for doing what I do. Do you think that you could manage something like that? Working to prevent other children from experiencing what you jsut have?"
DM George Tuesday October 4th, 2005 10:09:35 PM
OOC. This is only for the Giggling Ghost part of the turn. Waiting on Justin/Florin to post before I can respond to that half.
Xenia blasts Kay and Tionel comes to her defense and in turn get blasted by the young woman. The others wisely decide to stay out of the brewing conflict and go out of their way to look busy.
Angus asks Happy to draw a map to the site of the teleportation gates and Happy is happy to oblige. He draws a map but says, "Go up the Northwest tower and come out on the Gold level. Normally you would encounter a guard, but not sure if you still will. Go down Kings Way until you come to Silver Street. Head south on it until you reach Emerald Pass. Head left. A street heading for the central column is there. Can't remember the name but it is to the north. The gate is located in a warehouse at the corner."
Kay looks at Xenia and her look softens. "Yes I think we have a different mothering style. Still I can see your concern for the children is genuine. Of course I will help in trying to keep the children safe. Please forgive my anger. I don't know where my own children are or even if they are still alive. I am so worried." Tears start forming in the woman's eyes as she turns and hurries away.
Those on watch don't recognize anything dangerous but hear another roar off in the distance. The roar almost sounds angry.
Xenia (HP 41/42) d20+13=14 Tuesday October 4th, 2005 10:48:23 PM
Xenia almost slaps her forehead again. They just don't get it. It's not Mothering. It's survival. The floor is tilted so you can't hardly walk, and they still don't get it.
"Look," Xenia catches up to the woman and puts a hand on her shoulder, "you're probably better than I am at the mothering thing. That's why it's best if you're in charge of that. 'Kay? That way we can concentrate on the surviving part of this. We need to get these kids out of here. It's not safe for them here."
"I can see that keeping them focused is gonna be harder and harder. I think the faster we move the better. Can you help us keep them happy, till we can get them out of here," Xenia asks the woman. "Please, you look like you'd be good at it."
"Tionel, can you turn into a bird or something, and fly out real quick to see if Florin, Syr ... " *sigh* " ... or Wynn need any help?"
"What's a minimum force we need here to keep the kids safe, just in case they need help out there?"
Rolls and Actions Listen 14 (Nat 1. Don't hear no lions, tigers or bears.)
Florin Jadenth d20+3=23 d20+2=6 Tuesday October 4th, 2005 11:37:45 PM
(OOC:Sorry george, I feel behind today.)
Florin looks to Syr and motions towards the destroyed building, "We start now. Who knows how long the person has been under there. Anyway, others might of heard the growl, friend or enemy anyway."
Florin moves to help move some of the debrie and look for the person trapped. He also takes a moment to stab his sword into a broken peice of wood so it's near at hand while he does this, also making sure the wood is laying atleast haveway flat and not attached to anything that my cause more of the building to fall apart.
(Spot:23 Listen:6, don't know if I need other checks.)
Tionel Wednesday October 5th, 2005 5:47:17 AM
Tionel sighs, as Xenia jabs her fingers into his chest. He stares at her for a few seconds, and his expression is just blank, mirrorless. He seems to be thinking. He stares at the half-elf a few moments longer, then speaks slowly. "Right. You are concerned about the kids safety, but you express that concern in the strangest way. You want me to feel concerned, guilty, and so on, until I overlook the fact that they're just kids? To make them grow up for a while, just to get over this situation? "How we treat people, what we really are, comes to the forefront under extreme circumstances. When you're rich and well-fed, it's easy to give money to the poor, but when you're barely scraggling along doing so is a sign of a good heart. A brute is a warrior who slays with passion, but a hero is a man who faces his fears. Similarly, a child is a child, and forcing them to act differently can only hurt them." Tionel ponders the source of the roar. "It is too far to go to, better to prepare for it to come here..." He goes over to the front door and peers through a crack, looking into the streets beyond it.
Over his shoulder, he says back to Xenia, "I love these children, but I know they are just children and need time to grow up and enjoy life before they must settle down to become serious. Don't threaten me with their lives, saying I'm responsible. I could as easily say that if Wynn dies, it is your fault." Tionel makes sure that these last words in particular sound just hard enough to make the half-elf feel the anger that he feels. (Also that there's enough space between him and Xenia that she can't slap or punch him without having to run across the room.)
"But I won't say that, for we know it's not true."
DM George Supplimental Wednesday October 5th, 2005 7:49:16 AM
Florin and Syr tie the rope and prepare it for later use and then decide to investigate the sounds they hear. As they move towards the noise, threading their way through the rubble, they see movement to their left.
The quickly spin to face the danger but relax when they see Wynn picking his way towards them. United together, they move towards the sound and enter a half destroyed building. Before them, they see a striped and very large tiger. It almost seems to be toying with something in front of it, swiping at it like a cat does a mouse.
When the trio enters, the tiger turns in a crouch facing them, a low growl coming from the back of its throat. As it turns the group can see a well dressed gnome whose legs seem to be trapped under some rubble. He has a walking stick in hand which he was using to try and defend himself.
Angus d20+2=16 Wednesday October 5th, 2005 1:12:31 PM
Angus barely hears the roar in the distance, over all of the kids noise. Angus hopes his friends stay far away from trouble as we have enough already.
Angus heartily thanks Happy for the map and directions. "This will be most helpful. Maybe after the latest scouting trip we can take the show on the road and find the kids safer accomodations in Plateau City. We have imposed upon your generosity for far too long. Thanks again for all you have done for us and the kids."
Angus looks to Lang's new hairy form and remakes "Did Syr say how long he would be gone and if he would signal us if he got in trouble?"
Wynn [AC=19; HP=52/52] d20+9=11 d20+11=24 d6=5 Wednesday October 5th, 2005 5:09:16 PM
If Wynn is within 15 feet of the tiger he will draw his sword and attempt to draw the tigers attention away from the pinned gnome by attacking it [Hit AC=11]. Otherwise he will unshoulder his bow and let loose a single arrow from where he stands [Hit AC=24 for 5 HP].
"Stay still and we'll draw the beast off" Wynn calls out to the gnome.
In either case the bard will attempt to Dodge any reprisals from the cat [Effective AC=20].
Florin Jadenth-AC:20-HP:60/60 d20+12=14 d20+7=26 d20+7=19 d8+5=8 d8+5=11 d8+5=8 Wednesday October 5th, 2005 8:10:32 PM
Florin nods to Wynn when he sees the man coming to join them and speaks quickly to him, "Nice to see you Wynn and thanks for coming to give us a hand. Everythign is safe back at the GG I pray and you didn't come with bad news."
Florin entering the building sees the tiger and sighs as he looks to his two companions and speaks quickly while readying his sword and shield to make his attack, "Is a shame actually to have to kill such a proud and noble beast."
Florin moves in also since Wynn already attacked and takes a double swing with his mithril longsword, watching the runes spelling it's name glow along the blade as he does.
(Can hit AC:12/26(crit:19) Damage:8/11(crit:8)
Belkior Wednesday October 5th, 2005 8:32:48 PM
The halfling cleric looks about at his companions, the children and the others here at the Giggling Ghost. Belkior thinks to himself, "I should check on those two guards, see how they're doing. That younger one didn't look too well."
Then he moves off to do just that. If one or more of the children want to accompany him, he will welcome their interest.
As he does so, he can't help but overhear the discussion between Xenia and Kay, the woman brought to the Ghost by the Children of Chaos.
DM George Wednesday October 5th, 2005 10:31:19 PM
At the Giggling Ghost:
Xenia tries to make amends with Kay and Kay smiles wanly at her and is about to say something when Tionel breaks in and gives Xenia the benefit of his thinking.
Belkior checks on the soldiers and finds them sleeping exhausted in the corner. They to seem to have been on alert and fighting for days.
Angus talks to Lang but Lang doesn't answer, but just looks at the cracks in the barricade.
The children seem to have calmed down or at least stopped crying. One pulls on Xenia's arm and when Xenia looks, her heart leaps to her throat. The deepest, bluest, and most innocent eyes look back at her. "It is going to be OK Xenia. My parents are watching over me and keeping me safe. They can watch all of us. They can watch over you too if you want?"
Out in the city:
Wynn leaps forward drawing his sword and swings at the tiger missing. Florin also swings hitting with a critical and gashing the tigers shoulder with a nasty hit. Syr hangs bag obviously surprised at the actions of the others or just shocked in seeing a tiger out in the city.
The tiger stung by the sword stroke decides there is easier prey elsewhere and withdraws, bounding out a hole in the wall and is quickly lost to sight.
The gnome looks up relief evident in his eyes. "Thank you for coming. You saved my life. I think that big kitty was gonna have me for a snack. Why he would want to eat such a stringy meal? Ack what bad taste. Can you good fellows get this beam off my legs please. I would be most grateful. Does one of you have a drop of water you can spare. Its been a while since any has passed my lips."
Xenia (41/42 HP) Wednesday October 5th, 2005 10:41:23 PM
Xenia throws her hands up in the air. Things have pushed past any attempt at hiding the party's divisive nature from the kids.
"Ti'nel, you got no brains! Lots of hard, no brains. I don't care what you feel. But if feeling guilty makes you wake up and start doing something to help get these kids to safety, then I'll push you in that direction if I can. You're playing cards and babbling nonsense about kids being kids. We're in a place that's trying to kill all of us. It's already killed some of the kids, and we got dead bodies to show for it. If they get a little scared, I think that's not necessarily a bad idea. BECAUSE. WE. ARE. IN. A. SCARY. PLACE!
And what are you trying to do? What are you trying to protect them from? Me!"
"Wake up, Ti'nel! If Wynn dies, it will be my fault. At least part. 'Cause I won't have been there to help him. 'Cause we're stronger together than we are apart. But the big difference is that Wynn can protect himself. Look at these kids around you. They can't. They can't protect themselves. So yes! You're responsible for them. I'm responsible for them. We're all responsible for each other. And if you don't want them to die, you'd better get your head on straight and do something about it."
Xenia shakes her head. With a quick dip, she reaches down and lifts the child, hugging the child fiercely to her. "I know, Sweetheart. I know."
"Alright kids," she calls out, "gather together. Sounds like we got a tiger outside. We need to go back down into the basement again."
Wynn d20+6=17 Wednesday October 5th, 2005 11:27:37 PM
The bard sheathes his longsword, searches for a suitably long and stout piece of debris, and does his best to use it as a lever to raise the beam that pins the gnome to the ground. [Str=17; took a +4 for using a lever].
The half-elf grunts under the exertion as he tries to lift the beam just enough to allow Syr or Florin to pull the gnome free.
Syr d20+4=17 Thursday October 6th, 2005 8:58:02 AM
Syr moves next to Wynn and helps with the heavy lifting (Str 17), "Ok, Flo pull him out?" Once the gnome is clear, he drops the beam and looks at the cane bearing figure, "Pardon sir, I'm Syr, the lever wielder over there is Wynn and finally this is Florin. Have you been trapped here all this time?" Reaching into his pouch, he pulls out a flask of water and offers it to the gnome. Looking to Florin, "We should get back to the others now.
Tionel d20+5=23 d20+5=13 Thursday October 6th, 2005 3:44:55 PM
Perhaps the elf takes the words personally, or perhaps they make no difference. Tionel doesn't display his emotions outwards, and instead watches the way outside and waits to see if a tiger or something comes out. (Spot 23, listen 13)
DM George Thursday October 6th, 2005 9:21:44 PM
The gnome screams in pain as Florin pulls him out. It looks like the gnome's leg is broken and he is holding his right arm in a cradled postion. The wrist is very swollen and also might be broken or at least severely sprained.
He gasps, "Please find my water skins. They are extremely important. They might be able to save the city."
He answers Sly as he takes the water, "Not sure how long I have camped out here. Over a day at least. Long enough to get a powerful thirst and my stomach has a herd of guard dogs in it growling the way it is. I was trying to hide from some of the more serious plant monsters when the stupid roof fell in on me. Lucky you came along when you did."
Back at the Giggling Ghost, most of the group is quiet as they contemplate the harsh words going back and forth between Tionel and Xenia. The stress seems to be affecting everyone.
Lang (ac 22; hp 56/67) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) d20+6=26 d20+6=12 Thursday October 6th, 2005 9:32:00 PM
Lang strains his ears, pretty sure that he heard something out there in the direction his companions went.
"Quiet down, I think I hear someone shouting in pain or anger."
Listen 26/30 (natural 20) Spot 12/16
Lang turns his head a little bit and strains to hear more noise and figure out what it means.
Florin Jadenth d20+7=23 Thursday October 6th, 2005 10:44:38 PM
Florin nods to the man and looks to Syr and Wynn, "Can you too search for the mans water skins he asked for. I will look to his wounds."
Florin leans down, inspecting the man's leg and doing his best to ease the pain in both with his mhealing kit and skills. He also pulls out a CLW potion and hands it to the man, "You would feel better if you drink this too sir."
(Heal DC:23)
Florin looks to Wynn and Syr again and nods, "As soon as we find this man's stuff we'll move out to the others and then see about getting everyone up to the higher levels."
Xenia (HP 41/42) Thursday October 6th, 2005 10:44:49 PM
Xenia hefts the child up onto her hip. "Alright, if something's coming, then we're all going downstairs."
"C'mon kids. Tomorrow, we're going to find you a way to Plateau City."
[OoC: Front door is blocked, right?]
Yes the door is blocked and guarded by a big smelly Bugbear. ;-)
Belkior Thursday October 6th, 2005 11:04:55 PM
The halfling cleric has left the soldiers to sleep. He moves to assist Xenia with getting the children organized to move. Belkior pays particular attention to the group of "students" that he has adopted.
Wynn Thursday October 6th, 2005 11:29:31 PM
Wynn waits until Florin has pulled the man free before letting the beam back down. "Thanks Syr, that was heavier than expected."
Wynn spends the next several minutes searching the debris for the man's waterskins [Take 20=23]. "What is so special about these waterskins that they might save a city" the bard asks the gnome as he moves a large piece of debris to look beneath it.
Angus d20+2=13 Thursday October 6th, 2005 11:59:57 PM
Angus moves over towards Lang and asks him what he heard.
He looks out into the street with Lang (spot 13).
Syr d20+8=18 Friday October 7th, 2005 9:26:16 AM
Syr nods at the gnome and begins looking around for the waterskins he mentioned. HE nods at Wynn's comment, "Yeah, I fail to see how some water will right the city?"
Tionel d20+5=21 d20+5=21 Friday October 7th, 2005 2:10:22 PM
Tionel nods his head, listening. "Well, there was a tiger out there, but it's gone now... I think the others are close by, coming back." He presses his ears to the board and peers through a window. "At least the door's shuttered and all the areas blocked..." (Spot 21, listen 21)
DM George d8+3=5 Friday October 7th, 2005 10:15:04 PM
The gnome gratefully takes the potion and swigs it down. A bit of color comes back to his cheeks but he definitely seems banged up and in need of more curing.
"I don't suspose you kind gentlemen could help me get to the Giggling Ghost? I hear there is a band of brave adventurers there. I have a proposition for them."
Wynn pulls off a sheet of plaster and sees to very large water skins filled to bursting. When the gnome sees them a burst of breath is expelled as he sighs, "Thanks be to Alemi. I still have a chance. Please you must get me to the Giggling Ghost."
Back at the Ghost:
All seems quiet as the group waits for their missing comrades to come back. Kay seems to be organizing a couple of games for the children that seem to be survivior related. Freeze...walking while holding hands... and finally big kids giving little kids piggy back rides.
Lang does hear a distant roar but things seem to go quiet again.
Wynn Saturday October 8th, 2005 9:17:55 AM
Wynn gingerly removes the two waterskins from the rubble, making sure they do not get torn by any sharp objects as he retrieves them.
"I'll carry these if you and Florin can help our friend here" he looks for some acknowledgement from Syr before shouldering the two waterskins.
As they make their way towards the Ghost, Wynn will press the gnome for more information about the contents of the waterskins as well as the gnome's name.
Xenia (HP 41/42) Saturday October 8th, 2005 2:05:50 PM
Xenia smiles as she watches the children at play. Coming up behind Kay, she places her hands on the woman's shoulders.
"I bet you're a good mom," she whispers in the woman's ear.
Then the girl rogue goes off to check the bundles and provisions for the trip out.
Belkior Saturday October 8th, 2005 8:56:26 PM
The halfling cleric decides that first aid supplies may be needed. From what he has seen of the City, sticks and other items for splints should be easy to find. But bandages might be difficult to find. So Belkior asks Happy if he can turn old linens into bandages.
Once the proprietor of the Ghost assents, Belkior will set his group of students to making bandages. Some of the children display rather more enthusiasm for tearing things apart that others, but he doesn't doesn't do anything to stop them.
Lang (ac 22; hp 56/67) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) Sunday October 9th, 2005 12:37:24 PM
Lang moves over to Belkior when he hears him ask Happy for linens for bandages.
"Belkior I have an almost full healer's kit (9 uses left) if you want it for your supplies. Belkior, please make sure that Happy gives you clean linens for your bandages."
Lang checks all his weapons for damage and prepares for moving and battle. He also checks Sunshine's armor and makes sure it is not chafing him.
OOC: George was I able to retrieve the merchant's weapon from the street?
sorry matt, you couldn't find it. Maybe someone stole it!
Angus d20+9=23 Sunday October 9th, 2005 9:46:20 PM
Angus pulls out his flute and begins to play. hopefuly it will pas the time more quickly until the rest of the group gets back.
Perform 23.
Florin Jadenth Monday October 10th, 2005 3:19:03 AM
Florin nods to the gnome and speaks to him as he stands, "Well good sir, you have already found three of them. That one there who first jumped in to help you is Wynn, quite good with a blade and I would say his silver tongue is also helpful. The other one there who is good with his fists is Syr, also a fellow friend and trusted companion. My name is Florin, leader of the group you might know as the Crimson Shield."
Florin looks to the gnime and nods, "Now before we go into details lets get you to the GG. Walking from the looks for you is out of the question so I can carry you on my back if you like?"
If the gnome decides being carried like Florin said is okay then Florin will hand his backpack to Syr as to safe his bow and arrows mainly from damage.
Florin glances to Wynn, "As we go I like you near me since those water skins are so important, also is nice to know someone who is good with a blade has my back." Florin smiles to Wynn with respect for the man's fighting ability and thanks for coming to help. Florin then looks to Syr and smiles to him also, "Umm, I know my backpack gives abit of weight but can you be ahead just abit to give us warning of any problems that we might run into? Your eyes are sharp and your feet as quick as your hands." Florin nods to Syr to let him know we should head off now and he smiles, glad to have Syr with him right now also, such trusted and worthy companions are hard to find and Florin is deffinetly proud of being among this group.
Tionel Monday October 10th, 2005 5:16:34 AM
Tionel finds himself staring outside, and humming to Angus' tune. He relaxes and winces only if Angus chooses to be actually practicing and not simply playing. "I miss it..the peace and music, the love and light. Do you think the city will ever go back to normal, Angus?"
Syr Monday October 10th, 2005 5:13:48 PM
With a wry grin at Wynn, he comments, "'trusted companion'? Do I look like a pet dog or something? Geez, I'd almost prefer Jonas' description of me." Grinning at Florin, he holds his hands out. Taking the pack with an overexaggerated sniff, he proceeds the group out the door with his nose high in the air.
DM George Monday October 10th, 2005 11:35:36 PM
After much struggling and gasps of pain from the gnome, the group makes it back to the Giggling Ghost. Lang wanted to know the password but after much hammering on the door, he finally let the group in.
The gnome sits on the ground and looks at Wynn, "Please be carefull with those skins and don't drink anything from them. It would make you very sick or possibly even kill you."
The gnome looks around and smiles, "If anyone could get me a drink, something stiff, I would call you friend for life. You never get bet up this bad in the labratory."
He looks around the group and says, "My name is Pekash Tribldown. My friends call me Pek. I am an alchemist by trade and I believe I have found a way to free the city. I found this very disagreeable fellow escorting 3 prisoners and asked for his aid and he sent me here. Never did catch his name but those prisoners looked frightened. He said there was a band of hero types holed up in the Giggling Ghost. I was trying to get here when I had my mishap. So are you interested in freeing the city from these accursed vines?"
He looks around hopefully.
Lang (ac 22; hp 56/67) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) Monday October 10th, 2005 11:43:53 PM
"Little man I will do anything you ask if it means that these plants will suffer and that I may be able to slay a few more of the plant creatures. The children in this building have suffered terribly these past days and it will be my pleasure to help rid the Floating City of the plants."
"What do you need us to do?"
Sunshine sense Lang's emotions and barks his approval.
Angus Monday October 10th, 2005 11:46:03 PM
Angus reaches into his supplies and gets his bottle of wine. Moving towards the gnome, Angus offers it to him.
"Here ya go. Here is some fine wine for your drinking pleasure."
Angus chuckles at Lang's zeal towards destroying the evil plant creatures.
Xenia Tuesday October 11th, 2005 10:06:49 AM
"Hi," Xenia waves a little greeting. "Xenia. Nice to meecha." The rogue's smile is thinner than usual, a touch toward the grim. She eyes the skins that Wynn has lugged back, and the lore of at least two generations of rogues picks key words from the gnome's introduction.
"Poison, huh? For the vines. 'S a good idea. But, like my Da says, poison's a blade with lots of little edges. Make sure you don't cut what you don't want to."
With no more than that brief comment, she turns to other matters. The cast of her dark face turns even more to the grim, and her mouth sets into a thin line of determination.
"Florin," moving up along side of the paladin, she whispers quietly to him, "I need to talk to you. And it's probs better to do this in private."
Syr Tuesday October 11th, 2005 7:18:15 PM
Once back at the Inn, Syr takes the opportunity to go check on the kids. Sitting and resting near them seems to ease his tension as he relaxes against the wall.
DM George Tuesday October 11th, 2005 8:38:14 PM
Pek will look take a long look at Lang and draw back slightly, "Ahhh thank you. Never knew your kind were so civically inclined. Most the time your kind would be taking advantage of this kind of situation to find a good meal. Typically a tender virgin or two. You will have to tell me your story when we get more time."
He glances back to the others and continues, "I was looking for body guards before I had a building fall in on me. Now I need someone to either take my place or heal my broken extremities." The gnome visibly winces as he shifts positions. "I need to get up to the open air level, find a way to get down the side of the city and squirt the contents of those wine skins on the vines attached to the city. If someone can squirt the other at the same time all the better."
He smiles a big smile, "I have a feeling, I will attract some attention after the first squirt. That will be a good thing since every creepy crawlie in that blasted jungle is trying to eat the citizens of this city on the shore. Huge maneating trees seem to be the worse. They seem to be breeding the nasty orc like things that are in turn feeding anything that has a pulse and moves to their vile hosts." Pek suddenly has watery eyes as he seems to relive some horrible memory.
He snaps back to attention and says, "I wish I could make more of this stuff but ran out of ingredients. Would like to squirt some down the maw of those devils but I think the wiser course is to free the city and try to get it out away from the shore."
He looks back at Lang and says, "Still want to come? We are seriously gonna piss off that jungle."
Florin Jadenth Tuesday October 11th, 2005 9:53:41 PM
Florin chuckles at Syr's comment and after they reach the GG he moves up to him and gives him a nudge, "back there when we saved the little fella here I didn't mean what I said as it sounded of course, no offense to you."
Florin moves into the GG with the others and motions to Belkior, "Hey Belkior, can you look at this man here for us? It seems he ran into some pretty nasty trouble which Syr, Wynn and I helped him from."
When Xenia approaches him and speaks about talking in private Florin lifts a brow in question since this is the first time Xenia has wished to speak to him as such but simply shrugs and nods, "Sure, lady's first and I'll follow to where you think it might be more private."
Xenia (HP 41/42) Tuesday October 11th, 2005 11:23:41 PM
Xenia leads the way into the kitchen.
"Florin Jadenth," she begins, planting her hands on her hips, "do you have even the first idea of what it is to lead a group? Do you know what the mostest important thing the group relies on you for when you're leader? It's not your bravery. It's not your morals. It's for you to make decisions!!!" The rogue throws up her hands. "That's what leadership is about. It's not about courage or glory or anything like that. It's about getting people to do stuff. It's leading. And if you go off by yourself, does it even occur to you that you leave the group without someone to lead?"
"You leave us all here, your daughter, everyone, and you run off. And when you run off, everyone just goes and does whatever they want!"
"That's not gonna work, Florin. It's just not."
Wynn d20+2=15 Wednesday October 12th, 2005 12:56:39 AM
Physically and mentally worn down, Wynn still manages a grin at Syr's antics.
The half elf follows behind the gnome, carrying the precious water skins as the monk leads the way back to the Giggling Ghost and the paladin takes the rear guard. After setting the skins down near the alchemist, the bard listens with interest to what Pek has to say. Understanding their importance, he remains on guard over the gnome and the skins.
The half elf winces when he hears Xenia's raised vioice coming from the kitchen. (Listen=15)
Wynn gestures for Belkior to come over and have a look at the gnome, then faces the little man. "I am willing to carry this poison and apply it to the vines, if it will free the city."
Tionel Wednesday October 12th, 2005 2:32:34 AM
The elf returns from a quick trip to the lavatory to see the newcomer. He introduces himself, "Greetings, I am Tionel Galadonel. We're the Crimson Shields...oh, I see you've already met most of us." After finding out the guy's quest, and his intentions, Tionel ponders... "Pek... Hmmm. Here, have some wine. Happy, can you whip up a meal for this poor fellow? You must have been through a bit." After the fellow has relaxed, Tionel comments, "Now, before we all set off to destroy the vile plants, I don't think this is a great idea at all. What you're talkinga bout is pouring poison and vile toxics into the underside of this city, directly onto the plants, and then where, into the waters of our surroundings. Now, I know these plants might be both fearsome and dangerous, but to me, this sounds like it has the potential to be very harmful to our city. You could poison the water we drink from, or perhaps drive these plants into a frenzy. Mutate them somehow. I can't be sure of the effects. Harmful at the least you say. "Now, I know we want to strike out at the enemy, the plants, to free our city from them. But I'm afraid I can't condone the sort of plan you seem to have, sir. But I do agree, it is a good idea. Now, I have a few suggestions on a better plan, if you will allow me. Perhaps if we could use contact or quick-acting, quick-dissolving toxics. If, for example, the poisons you used would go away once they contacted the water. I'm afraid I don't know the alchemical term for that. But in any case, you see what my worries are. If you can prove to me that these poisons you plan on using will not have a long-term effect on the Floating City's environs or hurt the land itself, then I will agree to your plan, as these plants DO have to be dealt with. You don't burn down a forest in order to get rid of a dangerous boar." Tionel makes sure he sounds somewhat strict, but also open to ideas and information. Also that the newcomer feels relaxed. "Belkior, can you help our guest? He appears wounded a little..."
Syr Wednesday October 12th, 2005 7:34:11 PM
Syr barks playfully once at Florin and enters the Ghost with a smile on his face. Syr sets the bags down carefully and joins the others near Pek. At Wynn's volunteering, "Slow down , you might want to save the climbing and such for your more agile fiancee... umm girlfriend... what do you call her anyway?"
Belkior Wednesday October 12th, 2005 8:30:05 PM
The halfling cleric rushes over to the injured gnome brought into the Giggling Ghost by Syr, Florin and Wynn.
"Excuse me," asks Belkior. "May I examine your leg? To determine how injured you are, and the best course of treatment, of course."
When the gnome nods assent, Belkior will bend over Pek's leg. Once he has diagnosed the extent of the gnomes injuries, Belkior will intone a prayer to Alemi and send healing magic into the gnome.
"There, that should be good as new. It might be a bit tender, but you should be able to use it just fine."
{OOC - I missed posting yesterday. There wasn't a DM post when I last checked, then didn't get a chance to post until now.)
Florin Jadenth Wednesday October 12th, 2005 9:10:07 PM
Florin shakes his head and looks at Xenia a moment before stepping up close and looking her in the eyes in a dead stare, "Listen here miss Xenia, I gave orders that we all head to the upper level to scout leaving the two guards, Happy and the kids here till we find out how safe it is and get a better idea of everything ALL the way up. My orders went ignored even by you, you and a couple others just left with the rest of us here, not giving us a clue or anything you all were leaving till it was to late. So my advice is not council me on my leadership skills and start listening to them yourself as well as some of the others here."
Florin looks to Xenia again and speaks clearly, "You all voted me leader, if you don't want to follow my orders then I quite simply will resign and you all can go doing what you wish like WE have been from the beginning."
Florin now walks out of the kitchen leaving Xenia there before she can say anything else and also looks to each person who might of heard his and Xenia's coversation and might also have something to say about it, daring them to bad mouth or say something against what he said.
Florin looks to everyone, "We have a rope set up at the stairs to help get everyone up the stairs. You should thank Syr for getting it up there. Now we should head out soon and get these kids moving too. The kids to young to get up the rope on their own should be tied securely and pulled up. This may take some time but it should work okay."
Florin looks to Happy and speaks to him, "Happy and I don't like asking you to leave the GG but would you like to come with us or see if someone will be willing to send supplies back to you? We could probably leave the guards here to help protect the place in our absence."
Florin now looks to the others and by now Xenia should of reentered the room so he speaks up loud enough for all to hear, "Now, if anyone has a problem with my idea then speak your mind but we are not acting alone. If you don't like me acting alone then neither are you. I expect opinions and if you have nothing against my plan then we act together. This however is the final time I say this. If I issue orders and no one objects then we should act on it, if it comes about that anyone acts or the majority of the group acts alone then I resign leadership position and we all can go about what you think will work best. Some of you look at my actions under a magnifying glass but when the boots on the other foot it's fine so put simply think before acting, if you think some other course of action or so is better then state it and we can simply pull a group opinion."
Florin walks to the side of the room and leans against the wall now and looks to Happy once more, "Happy, you happen to have some elven wine around here? I wouldn't mind having a small drink just to wet my whistle."
Xenia (2nd Illegal Post) Wednesday October 12th, 2005 9:59:21 PM
Xenia wanders back in from the kitchen. She leans against the already leaning doorframe, crossing one leg over an ankle and folding her thin arms across her small breasts. Quietly, she listens to Florin lay out how-it's-gonna-be.
When he's through she catches his eye. She winks and gives him a thumbs up. Her lips move silently forming exaggerated speach. And to those who bother, the words are: Highlight to display spoiler: {"Don't give up. Never. Give. Up."}
DM George Wednesday October 12th, 2005 10:45:38 PM
Florin and Xenia exchange some heated words and the young leader finally stands up for himself. Will the others show him the respect he deserves or will another step forward to take his place and assume his burdens.
Pek looks at Tionel like he grew a second head. Then the healing magic flows into him from Belkior, who notices he has both a broken leg and a broken wrist. (It took a cure serious and a cure moderate to get him healthy.)
He thanks Belkior and then whirls on Tionel his face red, his eyes piercing. "Enviromentally correct! Do you have any idea what is going on out there? Thousands are dying and your concerned about poisoning the water. This city has lost at least 10,000 of its citizens and more are dying every minute. I don't care what you think. I will go alone if I need to but we can't waste any more time or lives!"
OOC I will not be around tomorrow or have access to a computer. Please post normally and roleplay what you want to do. I will post on Friday and Saturday to make up. Thanks George
Lang (ac 22; hp 56/67) & Sunshine (ac 22; hp 47/47) Wednesday October 12th, 2005 11:24:51 PM
Lang hears Florin's orders and moves over towards the doorway. Once there he starts to take apart the barricade, enough to let people through.
"Florin, are we moving the children or going with the Gnome to try and get the city upright? Or are we going to do both?"
"Happy do you want me to put the barricade back together once every is outside?"
"Ok rugrats, which ones of you are assigned to come with Sunshine and I. Hopefully you can keep me out of trouble" Lang says to the children with a playful laugh.
Angus Wednesday October 12th, 2005 11:29:25 PM
"How quickly do you think the plants will react to your water? How much danger will there be?"
Angus has some concerns about moving the children towards the area where the gnome's magic will be applied.
Xenia (HP 41/42) Thursday October 13th, 2005 8:27:58 AM
The dark rogue strolls into the midst of the group.
"Well, if I heard right, Pek here wants to do this thing on Open Level. We need to take the kids to the Teleport Pad on Gold Level. Gold Level is on the way to Open Level. Why can't we do both?"
"But you know," Xenia turns in a half circle to present to everyone, "I think Tionel's right. My Da says there's nothing more dangerous than a uncareful poisoner. Dangerous to himself and to everyone. I mean," she turns to the gnome, "you sure you thought this out? We've seen those vines from the outside. Do you have any idea how big they are? And you wanna squirt that stuff on 'em? I mean, look at what you got? Three bags, that's all."
"What's the dose? What's the effect of dose on size?" This girl looks like she's heard a bit about poisons.
"Usual delivery ain't squirting unless you wanna kill everything around, friend or enemy. That's your poison mist or gas. For more targeted poisoning, you got darts or arrows. You also got blades and pins of some kind. If this is a contact poison, we might think of painting it on the vines. But I gotta ask you," she eyes the bags again, "you sure that's gonna be enough?"
"Oh, and until we get the kids safely off, keep those things away from them, huh?"
Syr Thursday October 13th, 2005 4:43:54 PM
Aware that he is one of those that sometimes has his own agenda, he hangs in head in apology and gives the paladin a weak smile to reassure him. He peers at Florin curiously, wondering if the changed paladin took off purposely just to set up this confrontation. Muttering to himself quietly, "It looks like those changes have a more subtle effect than anticipated."
Moving over to the bags, he picks them up once more, preparing to leave the Ghost. "Whatever we do, I'm ready." Calling out to Florin, "Hey bossman, if you don't mind, I'll keep this stuff in the rear and as far away from the kids as possible?"
Florin Jadenth Thursday October 13th, 2005 7:48:36 PM
Florin looks to the gnome and the others asking questions and shrugs before speaking up once more, "Okay everyone, why not find out more details on this once we get that far. First priority if to get these kids safe."
Florin looks to Pek and speaks to him, "We will look into helping you more one the kids are safe if you don't mind sir. Helping them as was said is on the way to where you need to go so it all should work out."
Florin looks to Syr also and nods, "I agree Syr. Becareful yourself also, I don't want you green looking or so from poison." Florin gives the man a wink to let him know he was joking.
Floring looks to everyone and speaks up so everyone hears him clearly, "Okay everyone, lets get ready to head out." Florin looks to Xenia mainly, "Better get the kids up here and lets get them all ready to leave. I also would like you and Lang to take point Xenia just incase. You two should beable to give us warning enough and fall back to the group."
Florin lastly moves over to Lang while he waits for the others to get the kids and such, "Lang my friend I need to speak to you for a moment about the stairs we will need to go up. Me and Syr have a rope hanging there and ready for use but some of the kids will need pulled up the stairs. I hate to say it this way but your new body has alot of power behind it from what I have seen so I will need your help pulling the kids up to the top of the stairs. I figure Xenia would be one of the best to help tie the knot for the kids to be pulled up and she would surely be the best climbing I would expect."
Florin sighs and looks to Tionel, Angus, Belkior and Wynn, "All of us will hang back by the kids as we move to the upper levels. I know moving as a mass might be bad but I think it will be safer. Xenia and Lang will be out ahead of us alittle ways to keep a eye for trouble. Syr will be taking up the rear alittle father back from the kids as to keep the poison safe. I expect Pek will want to hang back with Syr since the poisons are his. I know this goes without question but we need to watch the kids, help them out since the going will be rough."
Florin kneels down by Belkior and looks to him and Tionel now, "I hate to say it but you two and I will have a even more difficult job. We all have some experience with healing except Belkior who has made a life of it. We need to watch the kids even more careful and keep them up and going if anything happens. I expect we all seen enough death of children for our life time."
Florin sighs and wonders if he covered everything. He knows though no matter how well he tries to plan that something may happen to cause his plans to go to ruin and he sighs even more since he not only has the people of the group he calls his friends and also his family but his daughter is among thee children he has to safe and get to safty.
Belkior Thursday October 13th, 2005 10:00:31 PM
The halfling cleric looks directly back at Florin. "I will be able to perform most of the healing required, Florin, either through my own abilities or using some of the magic items that I have."
Belkior looks away from the paladin and casts his eyes over the group of children. "If we go slowly and keep within their limits, we should have no problem. Will you listen when I, or anyone else, tells you that the children need to rest? I understand that there won't always be good or safe places to rest, but when we find some we should make an effort to rest. And let me and my helpers tend any small injuries before they get worse."
Addressing the entire group now, "And, if any of you should happen to find any healing supplies, let me know. I'm down to improvised bandages and splints."
(OOC - DM George - I've roleplayed that Belkior has used up the contents of his two Healer's Kits. Would there be opportunity to purchase replacements in the Catacombs and "find" them in a shattered building as we travel?)
Don't bother going to the catacombs, if you want to roleplay trying to find some supplies, then roleplay it. Course it is gonna be tough with the conditions. Spells 0 - DC 14 - Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Mending, Purify Food & Drink (2) 1- DC 15 - Bless(2), Sanctuary, Shield of Faith (D - Cure Light Wounds) 2 - DC 16 - Bear's Endurance*, Bull's Strength, Delay Poison, Spiritual Weapon (D - Aid) 3 - DC 17 - Create Food & Water(2), Prayer (D - Cure Serious Wounds*) * = cast
LOG ON